This introductory book focuses on the development and functioning of the European Union. The exemplification of theory-driven analyses aims to help readers independently grasp the complex subject of European integration. This book is intended to enhance understanding of the development and functioning of the European Union. It avoids the previous exclusive focus of analysis on a sub-discipline of political science that either centered on integration or the European political system. It also does not get bogged down in presenting the individual areas of European politics, from agricultural to defense policy. Furthermore, integration theories are not treated separately from the presentation of the structure and processes of European politics. Instead, the authors adopt a theory-driven approach.