A Critical History of the Use of ‘European Values’

Abstract This chapter examines how the use, content, and impact of notion ‘European values’ in European institutions has changed over time. It especially focuses on when why (and what context) term been used distinguishes between a conservative Christian more inclusive secular definition term. After brief word about method, Cold War use by politicians post-war years is examined. The then explores how, after end War, was also second, sense as it became mainstream increasingly started using to legitimise project (also because rival notions such that identity’ or ‘social Europe’ proved less useful). Moving closer present, shows some today’s tensions surrounding concept values can be explained their history. ends proposing possible way out predicament, pleading for room political debate around values.