In talking about Europe, it is common to emphasise the democratic, constitutional and peaceful values that unite Europeans. However, according to Dag Nikolaus Hasse, it is not that easy to find an essence of Europe.

In What is European? he shows that many traditional ideas about Europe are culturally one-sided and historically and geographically distorted, and calls for the discourse on Europe to be de-romanticised and de-colonised. This would better reflect Europe's eventful history and diversity and offer more people within the continent a cultural home. At the same time, colonial guilt towards other continents would be recognised, thus laying a more respectful foundation for shaping the future together. Thinking about Europe openly would mean that multiple loyalties of citizens to different groups would not endanger a state. On the contrary, according to Hasse, recognising them would, in fact, strengthen the political obligation towards the community as a whole.