ABSTRACT

In this chapter, the role of the economic elites is investigated in four steps. First, some general hypotheses are developed about their composition, interests, and actions in the process of European integration. It is also discussed what the dominant ideology of integration has been. Second, it is asked if European integration has in fact led to a fully integrated economic space. This question is crucial because it is argued that economic integration is the most dynamic and basic among all forms of integration. It sheds also light on the degree of the integration of the “European” economic elite. Third, the concrete role of the economic elites in the establishment and further development of integration and enlargement of the EEC, EC, and EU are investigated. Next, we look at the agricultural policy of the EU, an area where the split between elites and citizens is particularly evident. Fifth, we investigate the role of the economic elites in the process of enlargement of the EU toward Central East Europe. Finally, the implications of this theoretical perspective and fi ndings on the relation between economic and political integration of Europe are discussed.