This book explores the mechanisms of political representation and accountability in the European political system.

Maurizio Cotta is Senior Professor of Comparative Politics at the Università di Siena, Italy.

Pierangelo Isernia is Jean Monnet Professor of Culture and International Relations at the Università di Siena, Italy.

Introduction: The Challenges to the European Representation System - Away from the 'old normal'? 1. The Changing Political Landscape in Europe 2. The Impact of Eurosceptic Challenger Parties of the Left and Right on Party Competition over Europe 3. Who is to Blame for European Crises? 4. Crisis and the Complex Path of Burden-sharing in the EU 5. When the Going Gets Tough: Who should take responsibility in times of crisis - European or national institutions? 6. Representation at Work: Miller and Stokes go to Brussels 7. A Deliberative Bridge over the Mass-elite Rift: Effects of online deliberation on support for European integration 8. Group Decision-making in a Public Goods Game: A cross-country experiment. Conclusion: Taking up arms against a sea of troubles