For general discussion and debate. Possible talking point: What happens if the EU collapses?
With uncertain leadership and few powerful collective institutions, the union is struggling with the strains this economic crisis has inevitably produced among 27 different countries with different economic histories. The traditional concept of "solidarity," of one for all, is being undermined by protectionist pressures from political leaders with national constituencies and agendas.
Can the EU and the euro survive this recession, or will the national interests of European countries force a dissolution of this union? Assuming the latter, what would an unwinding of the euro, and the re-introduction of individual currencies do to the currently spiraling equity, bond, and real estate markets around the world as well as to the economy?
