‘No Exit from Brexit?’

Simon Susen (2017) ‘No Exit from Brexit?’, in William Outhwaite (ed.) Brexit: Sociological Responses, London: Anthem Press, pp. 153-182.

Posted: 11 Feb 2017

See all articles by Simon Susen

Simon Susen

City, University of London

Date Written: February 10, 2017

Abstract

The main purpose of this chapter is to examine the concept of Brexit. To this end, the analysis is structured as follows. The first part provides a shorthand definition of the concept of Brexit. The second part reflects on the historical context in which, on 23 June 2016, the UK referendum on European Union (EU) membership took place and which, arguably, had a profound impact on its outcome. The third part sheds light on the various sociological implications of the result of this referendum, paying specific attention to the principal reasons that led to the triumph of the Leave campaign over the Remain campaign. The fourth part offers some critical reflections on the legitimacy – or, as some may argue, illegitimacy – of the referendum’s outcome. The fifth part makes some tentative remarks on the prospects of different Brexit scenarios – not only in relation to the UK, but also in relation to the EU in particular and the wider international community in general. Based on the preceding considerations, the chapter concludes by making a case for a ‘critical sociology of Brexit’.

Keywords: Brexit, European Union, referendum, sociology, United Kingdom

Suggested Citation

Susen, Simon, ‘No Exit from Brexit?’ (February 10, 2017). Simon Susen (2017) ‘No Exit from Brexit?’, in William Outhwaite (ed.) Brexit: Sociological Responses, London: Anthem Press, pp. 153-182., Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2914928

Simon Susen (Contact Author)

City, University of London ( email )

Department of Sociology
Northampton Square
London, England EC1V 0HB
United Kingdom

HOME PAGE: http://www.city.ac.uk/people/academics/simon-susen

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