European dream

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The European dream is a suggested European Union alternative to the classic American Dream of the United States.

[edit] Definition

The European dream is an idea first stated and published by American author Jeremy Rifkin. In his book "The European Dream", it is painted in terms of opposition or contrast with traditional American values and goals. Where the American dream emphasises homogeneity of culture, the European dream seeks to conserve diversity. And where the American dream emphasises rugged individualism, the European dream puts more weight on community. Personal development and quality of life are emphasised over personal wealth.

The European dream is largely connected to the European Union. In fact, the development of the EU made it possible for Europeans to begin to believe in a pan-European identity. The European identity was hit after the ratification of the EU-constitution. A number of European intellectuals think a European enlarged identity is based on transcendent values.

European intellectual centers:

- Paris - Rome - London - Berlin - Madrid - Vienna

Other cities represent the EU-government, they are considered EU- capitals but exert only a limited influence in developing a transnational European identity:

. Brussels (Seat of the European Council) . Strasbourg (Seat of the EU parliament)

Some cities have an influence on certain government branches:

. Frankfurt (ECB) . Luxembourg (European Court of Justice)

Oppositions to the European dream:

Many people resist European politics because of old friction and international rivalries, language barriers, as well as on the basis of social concerns. Job worries play an important role. Many people, young and old, shun the concept of a "European identity", claiming their identities to be exclusively national (e.g., British, German, French, Portuguese, etc.). Many also are turned off by the socialist views in the European dream.