Regionalism in a Global Society deals with the future prospects of regional integration and interaction by examining the experiences of New England, Atlantic Canada, and the Northeast International zone. Relying on case studies in different policy fields in the selected supra-regions, the authors provide an historical, comparative, and interdisciplinary overview of the dominant themes and issues surrounding transborder regionalism. The purpose of the volume is to promote a regional dialogue and to conceptualize and address the diverse institutional, economic, and other forces that have complicated the search for a common approach in New England and Atlantic Canada. The volume also represents an opportunity to bring together American and Canadian researchers in a collaboration that generates a better understanding of the impact and implications of regionalization.
Beginning with an introduction to comparative policy, the book provides an analysis of past constraints on and opportunities for north-south integration, including a consideration of the constitutional frameworks, bureaucratic structures, and party systems that have influenced the integration question. It then examines the challenges implied by federalism and proposes potential models for inter-state cooperation and/or reformation. Case studies include comprehensive and comparative explorations of regional economic development and motivation, academic regionalism, and the prospect for environmental regionalism in New England and Atlantic Canada.