1999

What are the causal variables behind domestic structural change? This paper sketches a comparative analysis of three 'most different cases' of the Eastern bloc; one of the conclusions drawn is that individual agency, while crucial in an authoritarian setting, must be supplemented by constructivist insights of social learning and ideational exchange.

ARENA Working Paper 02/1999 (html)

Jeffrey T. Checkel

How should we conceive of the EU's collective decision to expand towards Central and Eastern Europe? This paper analyses the process and finds that rationalist and constructivist approaches both have something to offer; while pursuit of self-interest may predominate, decision-making is played out within a framework of perceived consensus and need for legitimacy.

ARENA Working Paper 15/1999 (html)

Frank Schimmelfenning

How can the inherent tensions between supposedly universal rights and cultural relativism be resolved? This paper takes this question to a concrete evaluation of two policy documents: (i) an UNESCO report and (ii) the Bangkok Declaration, both dealing with Asian, Westen and 'universal' values.

ARENA Working Paper 20/1999 (html)

Andreas Føllesdal