Haas

After reading Haas' discussion on Regional Integration, there were two main points that I could agree with. The first is that IR theory is highly contextual. Haas breaks down federalism and neofunctionalism to many different outcomes and tendencies, based upon differing regions and other specific factors. As I've previously mentioned, no one theory can explain all relations without considering context at its foundation. The second point I agree with is that we can't define an end to integration because it will be unlike any entity we've seen before. For example, the EU is unlike any entity that has ever existed in history, and it is continuing to evolve into some unforeseen form.

That aside, I found the Haas reading highly disjointed and difficult to appreciate. Although he does take context into consideration, there are simply too many independent variables that he puts forth. The independent variables are not tied together through any clear relationships, and so, they break the case for any sort of resulting theory. Haas recognizes this problem, but does not propose any constructive solutions. The entire discussion revolves around the flaws and context-specific exceptions to theoretical assertions. At the very end, Haas offers a constructive thought in that any sort of regional integration will promote war unless there is one complete [globally] integrated system in which state boundaries disintegrate. I agree with Haas, however, that this is a highly unlikely scenario. It is also one which cannot be proved, seeming as it has never existed in history.

After 40 pages of discussion, Haas is no closer towards establishing a comprehensive theory, and I am left feeling less confident in comprehending neofunctionalism all together.