The Neo-functionalist theory
This essay will argue how the conduct of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) supports the neo-functionalist theory of European integration. It will also show how the counter-argument of intergovernmentalism, whilst having some merits, does not explain the ECJ's development as well as neo-functionalism. The principle-supervisor-agent (P-S-A) model will also be touched upon briefly. The ECJ was created under the same Treaty as the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951. The Treaty was signed by six states: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands.