abstract:
Europe, shaken by multiple crises, faces a fundamental choice: Will it remain a political actor or become a
passive periphery of other global powers? This book argues that only a renewed sense of community and
solidarity – rooted in Europe’s Christian-humanist heritage – can secure its future.
Written by a team of five experts, the book explores:
1. Europe’s Identity:
Europe’s cultural and moral foundations are shaped by seven historical factors – including a pragmatic blend
of Christian ideals and rational Enlightenment thought. Despite historical contradictions, a core European
principle emerges: “Safeguarding human dignity through unity in diversity.”
2. Europe Today:
European integration began as a top-down project, driven by necessity after the World Wars. While
successful in creating peace and economic cooperation, it lacked a parallel development of democratic
participation and cultural identity.
The EU’s reluctance to acknowledge its Christian-humanist roots has hindered the creation of a compelling,
value-based narrative that can inspire its citizens.
3. Learning to Love Europe:
To win hearts and minds, Europe must build its identity on human dignity – and with it, values such as
individuality, democracy, minority rights, tolerance, and responsibility. These are not solely products of
Enlightenment rationality, but also of a tacit convergence between religious and humanist traditions.
Europe’s unique strength lies in its self-reflection and its striving for progress – exemplified by the proposed
Universal Declaration of Human Duties, a project worth reviving to foster a deeper sense of European
solidarity.
4. What Can Be Done:
The book proposes concrete steps – legal, cultural, and educational – to strengthen Europe’s identity,
including formal EU-religion dialogue, protection of cultural values, and youth-focused initiatives such as
creative competitions.
With references to leading thinkers like Jürgen Habermas and poetic insights from Erich Kästner, this book
offers a thoughtful, interdisciplinary roadmap for renewing Europe’s cultural cohesion – and learning to love
the idea of Europe again.
