Journal of European Public Policy · 1999 · 275 citations · 0 references
Language PolicyEuropean GovernanceEuropean Community LawFrenchEuropean Legal HistoryInternational RelationsIntegration DiscourseEuropean Union LawComparative PoliticsDiscourse AnalysisLanguage StudiesEuropean IssueEuropean PoliticsPolitical ScienceSocial Sciences
The role of language has largely been neglected in studies of European integration. This article offers a theoretical foundation to address that gap by applying discourse analysis. It employs a three‑move framework—an Austinian performative‑language move, a Foucauldian political‑implication move, and a Derridarean change‑possibility move—illustrated with historical examples of European integration. The conclusion raises research questions from this discursive perspective and notes several caveats. Keywords: Discourse Analysis, European Governance, Integration Theory, Language, Polity Formation.
Abstract The role of language has as yet been largely neglected in studies of European integration. This article provides the theoretical groundwork to remedy this gap through discourse analysis. Its main argument is that attempts to capture the EU's nature both in the political and the academic debate themselves take part in the construction of the Euro-polity. The article proceeds in three moves: an 'Austinian' move introducing the notion of a performative language, a 'Foucauldian' move clarifying the political implications of such a language, and a 'Derridarean' move discussing the possibilities of change and opening up space for alternative constructions of European governance. Each move is illustrated by examples from the history of European integration and European integration studies. The conclusion presents research questions emanating from such a discursive perspective and discusses some caveats. Keywords: Discourse AnalysisEuropean GovernanceIntegration TheoryLanguagePolity Formation