Scientific approaches to “the crisis” of 2008 and thereafter: The case of European studies

How have specialists in European Union affairs described and interpreted post-2008 economic difficulties? Based on a full survey of the four main English-language journals in this academic field (Journal of Common Market Studies, Journal of European Public Policy, Journal of European Integration and West European Politics), this article first analyzes the quantity of articles produced and their authors. Secondly, it reveals the theoretical, conceptual and normative assumptions that have informed these publications. This leads to a review of sociological hypotheses applicable to European studies and how they relate to academic disciplines, to scientific methodology and to supporters of greater European integration. While validating and enlarging upon these hypotheses, this analysis also highlights the weakness of political economy within contemporary political science, together with its virtual absence in research relating to the European Union.