National, sub-national, and supra-national identities: The case of United Kingdom political and business leaders in the context of the European community

Economic and political bonds are insufficient to promote integration in the European Community (now European Union.) In order for a lasting, prosperous and peaceful union to develop, threads of common identity must also be woven among Community Member States. As a member state that has shown inconsistency in its attitude to the Community, Britain is chosen as a test case to explore the development, if any, of a European identity. Two British leadership groups, professional politicians and upper level business managers are examined. Interviews and survey results produce empirical evidence indicating that Britons adopt "Europeanness" only when presented with circumstances in which doing so promotes their material interests. Both the status quo English cultural majority in Britain and smaller groups cling to their nation as a primary source of identity. Those who perceive themselves as subordinated by the English cultural and political environment are more likely to embrace Europeanness than those who belong to the majority status quo power structure. However, even among groups in which national identity is a primary motivator for separatist movements, consideration of material interests and practicalities are necessary in order to seriously mobilize ideas of independence as sovereign nations within the E.C.