By contrasting different theoretical perspectives on regional integration, this valuable text advances our understanding of this important phenomenon in international relations. The volume contains theoretical considerations with empirical studies of integration efforts in many parts of the world including Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America. Structured in four sections: governmentalist perspectives; power perspectives; constructivist perspectives; and neofunctionalist and historical institutionalist perspectives, the book offers important insights to theorists, policy makers, students and other readers concerned about world developments. It will also provide support for courses covering international political economy, international relations and regional integration, both at undergraduate and graduate levels.

About the Author
Finn Laursen is Professor of International Politics within the Department of Political Science and Public Management, and Director of the Centre for European Studies at the University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.

Reviews

'This wide-ranging collection of articles...provides a fine blend of up-to-date...empirical research on regional integration issues and a valuable synthesis of different theoretical approaches. Taken as a whole, the volume makes an important contribution to the growing literature in international relations and European studies by bringing clarity and structured orientations in a field of high scientific importance, but persistent conceptual confusion.' Mario TelA(2), Free University Brussels (ULB), Belgium 'Provides a very valuable comparative perspective on the European Union and other projects of regional integration. Ranging across the Americas, Southeast Asia, and East Asia, this volume will interest those who view theories addressing European integration as key to understanding the process of non-European regional integration as well as those who reject that approach.' Alberta Sbragia, European Union Center of Excellence & European Studies Center, University of Pittsburgh, USA 'This remarkable work does not only consider the relevance of the European experience for regional integration elsewhere but also draws upon examples from the other regions to illuminate the development of the EU from different theoretical perspectives. A Great Leap Forward in the emerging field of comparative regionalism!' BjArn Hettne, University of Gothenburg, Sweden

Book Information
ISBN 9780754640868
Author Finn Laursen
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 1500g