THE EFFECT OF CULTURAL FACTORS ON THE EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

Abstract

There are some keystones in the development of European integration that had certain characteristics and peculiarities reflected on the structure of Europe. All of the social, cultural, historical, economical and political factors can affect this process.The European Union has undergone the three basic integration types; economic, political and cultural integrations. Althougth political integration was important, the economic integration was the most significant integration type. In the long run, cultural integration continues to be a problem. Cultural integration can be seen as a sociological problem because of its advantages and disadvantages that affect the European integration.Most of the researchers and experts have focused on economic and political phases rather than cultural processes. In this study, an approach which centred on cultural integration towards European integration process will be examined. The effects of cultural factors will be analyzed within the framework of European integration and European identity.