Course content

Is cultural cohesion needed in order to make the European Union a “real” union? What role has culture played in the promotion of European integration? Why do some people feel more European than others? Despite the fact that the majority of European countries are extensively collaborating economically and politically, national identities still dominate. This course discusses how and to what extent the idea of a common European culture has become a “missing link” in a presumed European identity. It examines the various strategies of the EU to strengthen cultural integration in the EU, as well as the notions of Europe and the EU. Moreover, the course looks into the roles of individual, national and supranational identities in the EU’s interactions with its citizens and the world. By giving an in-depth introduction to the EU’s cultural policy, it explores relevant fields of European integration. Examples of these are the draft of a European citizenship and the cultural meaning and symbolism of flag, anthem and common currency.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

Students will acquire
- in-depth insight into the EU’s cultural policy
- familiarity with the sociology of European identity
- general insight into theoretical approaches to cultural studies and the study of European integration from a cultural perspective
- in-depth insight into how notions of European identity and European citizenship are related to the dynamics of a cultural integration of Europe today

Skills

Students will have
- the ability to analyse key issues, theories and methods in the field of socio-cultural integration
- the ability to discuss the question of national and European identities and its relevance for the study of European integration
- the ability to write scientific papers on the key topics of the course

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars with active student participation.

The students must pass the mandatory written assignment in order to take the exam. Exam registration requires that class registration and compulsory assignments are approved in the same semester. Compulsory activities from a previous semester may be approved by the department.

Compulsory assignments

• Written assignment

Recommended previous knowledge

EUR1001

Course materials

Available at the beginning of the semester

Credit reductions