AbstractsPolitical Science

Myths and Symbols in the EU

by Janus Hanusarson í Funningsstovu




Institution: Roskilde University
Department:
Year: 2014
Keywords: EU; Myths and Symbols; Sociological Institutionalism
Record ID: 1122376
Full text PDF: http://rudar.ruc.dk/handle/1800/16576


Abstract

This project seeks to investigate the role of mythology and symbolism in the European Parliament elections. By using a theoretical framework based in sociological institutionalism and symbols and myths this project seeks to improve upon the understanding myths and symbols of the Danish political parties Venstre, Socialdemokraterne and Dansk Folkeparti (Henceforth V, S and DF) and their election for the EP. I have used inductive approaches i.e. approaching the material and analyze which myths and/or symbols are evident - both abstract and concrete. I have found that there are differing conceptions among the parties, and that there has been considerable change within the parties and their conception of the EU. Albeit some of the data is inconclusive in regards with S, V in particular seems to have slightly altered their definition of the EU. And there is a recurring theme of nationalism within DF, unsurprising, but during the reconstruction of the competing understandings this might have affected some of the other parties, yet this contention is tougher to prove.