Delanty and Rumford challenge dominant views on European transformation by emphasizing the need for a social theory perspective. They argue that Europeanization is influenced by globalization and significant social changes beyond the EU's scope. This multidisciplinary book engages various social science fields, expanding the debate on Europe's evolution.
Focusing on the concept of Europeanization, this book critiques traditional views of European integration, advocating for a deeper understanding of societal transformations. It emphasizes the need to theorize Europeanization beyond mere governance or institutional frameworks, suggesting that a more nuanced approach is essential for grasping the complexities of Europe's evolution. Through a social theory lens, the work aims to reshape discussions around European studies by prioritizing societal dynamics over simplistic integration models.
Focusing on the concept of cosmopolitanism as a politics of space, this book presents a fresh theoretical framework for analyzing Europe's social and political transformations in the context of globalization. It critiques existing globalization theories that overlook spatial dimensions and engages with contemporary social science trends, particularly the spatial turn. Additionally, it challenges traditional views of Europe by proposing that it be understood as a postwestern entity, offering a provocative perspective on European identity and its imperial implications.