In order to discuss the statement, which constitutes the title of this essay, there are clarifications, which must be made regarding the statement to be discussed. Firstly European integration has been an ongoing process, which did not suddenly start with the European Economic Community (EEC), nor with the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). However for the purposes of this essay, the term European integration will only be discussed in the context of post 1945 developments. Also it must be taken into account that due to the fact that European integration has been attempted in many different forms, at many different times and by many different people, it will be impossible to conclude this essay with a straight agreement or disagreement of the title. However the essay will examine the various different attempts at European integration, attempting to decipher the factors behind the wish for integration