The European Union in the 21st century explores a complex and ever-changing organization, examining the pursuit of two very different goals: power (security and political influence) and abundance (economic growth and social well-being). The book introduces readers to the systematic thinking used by political scientists, helping them understand these two objectives and how the tension between them influences institutions and policy areas. Each goal represents a different perspective on the role that national governments and citizens should play, and on what the EU is, what it does, what it cannot do, and the prospects for its future.