Especially in the late 20th century, Ireland has undergone substantial changes in its economy, politics (including education), and society, which can be described as an overall modernisation.
An important aspect in analysing this process is to examine how big the influence of the European Union, which Ireland joined in 19731 after its first application in 19612, was and is.
Is European integration a key aspect of Ireland’s rise to prosperity, or did national policy making play the main role? How important is the EU to Ireland’s development nowadays and what is to be expected in the future?
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Analysis
- Economy
- Politics
- Social Change
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay examines the significance of European integration in Ireland's modernization process, specifically in the late 20th century. It explores whether the European Union played a key role in Ireland's economic growth and societal development, or if national policies were more influential. Additionally, the essay considers the present and future role of the EU in Ireland's economic and social landscape.
- The impact of European integration on Irish modernization
- The role of the European Union in Ireland's economic growth
- The influence of national policies on Irish modernization
- The current and future significance of the EU for Ireland
- The evolution of Irish society and its relationship with Europe
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The introduction sets the context by highlighting Ireland's significant modernization in the late 20th century, particularly in its economy, politics, and society. It then focuses on the role of European integration in this transformation, specifically considering the impact of Ireland's membership in the European Union. The analysis delves into various aspects of Irish modernization, beginning with the economy. It discusses the rise of the "Celtic Tiger" period (1995-2007) and the factors that contributed to Ireland's economic growth, including the abolishment of protectionist policies, attracting foreign direct investment, and the implementation of the Programme for National Recovery. The chapter on politics explores the impact of the European Union on Irish political development. It examines the role of the EU in shaping Irish education policies and its broader influence on the political landscape. Finally, the analysis section focuses on social change, highlighting how European integration has contributed to societal transformations in Ireland. It discusses the role of the EU in promoting social equality, cultural exchange, and broader societal progress.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The primary keywords and focus topics of this essay are: Irish modernization, European integration, economic growth, politics, social change, Celtic Tiger, foreign direct investment, Programme for National Recovery, EU membership, societal transformation, and the impact of the European Union on Irish society and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ireland join the European Union?
Ireland joined the European Union (then the EEC) in 1973, following an initial application in 1961.
What was the "Celtic Tiger" period?
It refers to the period of rapid economic growth in Ireland between 1995 and 2007, driven by FDI and economic modernization.
How did the EU influence Irish economic policies?
The EU helped end protectionist policies and provided a framework for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).
What role did national policies play alongside EU integration?
National initiatives like the Programme for National Recovery were crucial in stabilizing and growing the Irish economy.
How has Irish society changed due to European integration?
Integration promoted social equality, cultural exchange, and significant transformations in education and political structures.
Is Irish modernization considered "unthinkable" without the EU?
The essay analyzes this question, suggesting that while national policy was vital, the EU provided the essential external environment for Ireland's rise to prosperity.
- Quote paper
- Sophia Braun (Author), 2012, Is Irish modernisation unthinkable without European Integration?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/198509
