The European Union: A Citizen's Guide (Pelican Books)

This is a nice, critical description of the European Union. It begins with a short explanation of how the EU is structured. This was, unfortunately, the weakest chapter in the book having left this reader more confused than enlightened.

It continues with a history of how the EU came to be. What made this chapter most useful was that it explained the many different national and political view points about what the EU could be as the EU evolved over the years. It then discusses the economics of the EU and includes plenty of critical views as to who has been helped most by the EU.

The next chapter provides a detailed discussion of Euroscepticism and the various groups that have criticized the EU. Unfortunately, the book was published in show more 2016 and feels dated since so much has happened since then (e.g. BREXIT). The book then continues with chapters on whether the EU will keep expanding and a consideration of whether the EU could become a superpower.

In summary, the book was interesting and a useful review of the history of the EU but is disappointing that it is not more up to date. show less

It's rare that a book is both a solid, clear introduction to a complicated topic, and a good intervention in current arguments about that topic. Bickerton manages it here. It's not deep, because it's about 200 pages long (once you take out all the lovingly designed padding and black pages and so on). But it does make sense, and does point you to other resources should you want to go into it a bit more. And the central argument--the problem with the EU and its lack of democratic accountability are caused by the lack of democratic accountability and general stupidity of the governments of the member states--is perfectly convincing.

A readable & concise overview of the history, development and structures of the European Union.

Some EU enthusiasts may find the author a touch "euro-sceptical" but, to my mind, he does a good job in fairly describing the issues & challenges. Recommended. (Bickerton is a regular guest on the excellent podcast "Talking Politics". Also highly recommended.)

Written and published shortly before Brexit by an informed academic Leaver, this book would have been best read about 2 years ago. It wouldn't have changed my Remain stance, largely because Bickerton, whilst able to show the flaws of the EU and the direction its heading, doesn't address the alternative history in which the EU doesn't exist. I think in some respect, because its neither the intended scope of the book nor is it an easy thought experiment. I fail when I try it myself, but it does color why I'm fundamentally Remain — the balance of benefit/loss sits with cross border cöoperation. Bickerton would argue the same, with less Federalism, but I think the flavour of his argument does in a none existent world where Lexit is a show more good idea. Nevertheless, he's gives a researched history of the EU and adds facts and anecdotes to my reform side show less

A great overview of the inner workings of the European Union. I deliberately read this to be more informed ahead of the EU Referendum, to the extent I finished the book on the morning of polling day itself. For me I feel I made an truly informed decision. Sadly, I'm not sure the majority of the electorate did the same.

Good overview of the history of the EU, as well as its current struggles and institutions. As riveting as complicated international law can be.

Excellent description of the European Union.