E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
32

Submitted  
04/2018

Accepted for  
publication 
10/2018

European Integration Studies
No. 12 / 2018
pp. 32-49
DOI 10.5755/j01.eis.0.12.21870 

The European 
Mind-set, 
European Opinion 
and Economic 
Developments in 
2007–2017: Major 
Changes of Public 
Opinion and the 
European Mind-set 
in 2004–2018

EIS 12/2018

Abstract

The European Mind-set, 
European Opinion and 
Economic Developments 
in 2007–2017: Major 
Changes of Public Opinion 
and the European Mind-set 
in 2004–2018

 http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eis.0.12.21870

Jari Kaivo-oja, Theresa Lauraéus
Finland Future Research Centre, Turku School of Economics, University of Turku 

The purpose of the study: This study reports the major changes in public opinion in the European 
Union. The first part of the study includes citizens’ assessments of the most important issues facing 
the EU at the moment. 
The second part of study reports the changes in (1) national economic situation evaluations, (2) Euro-
pean economic situation evaluations, (3) European economic crisis recovery evaluations (the impact 
on the crisis on jobs), (4) evaluations of euro-optimism vs. pessimism, (5) evaluations about the sup-
port for the euro area and (6) evaluations support for the euro. All these changes of the Standard Euro-
barometer results are mirrored in relation to the long-run GDP changes of the European Union (EU-28). 
The third part of the study analyses the four key elements of European mind-sets. In general decision 
theory and general systems theory, a mind-set is a set of assumptions, beliefs, methods or notations 
held by one or more people or groups of people. In the field of future studies, the concept and analysis 
of mind-sets have been discussed in many global studies. From this perspective, it is interesting to 
elaborate the European mind-set and its status. The study is based on the very latest “The Future of 
Europe” datasets (September 2017). From these three perspectives, this study is relevant for European 
integration studies. 
A brief description of study design and tasks: This study analyses the European Mind-set in EU-27 
countries and in other key regional categories of the European Union in 2017. The study also analyses 
some changes in the European cognitive mind-set in 2006–2017. In the field of mind-set analysis, the 
critical issue of mental inertia will be discussed in this study. The study is based on the statistical plat-
form of the European statistical research questionnaire which has some common platform elements 
in Eurobarometer studies. 
Methods: The study is based on the databases of previous Eurobarometer survey studies in 2006–2015 
(eurozone, EU-25, EU-28 and other regional sub-categories) and Eurobarometer published in Septem-
ber 2017 (with EU-25 or EU-27 categories). The methods of Eurobarometer studies are conventional 
survey study research methods and statistical indicator research methods. We compare some pre-



33
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

vious key Eurobarometer results with the database of Eurobarometer 2017. The full analysis of four 
mind-sets is performed with Eurobarometer database of year 2017. Some analyses and conceptuali-
sations are of a pilot-type methodological nature.
Key Results: The study provides empirical insights about the European mind-set changes in the con-
text of the global and European economy, especially in 2017, on the basis of the latest European future 
oriented studies of Eurobarometer research in 2006–2017. The study analyses and presents some 
results of the changes in the European mind-set in 2006–2017. The Eurobarometer database (EU-27, 
EU-25 and other EU’s regional categories) are sorted in such way that we can analyse the four key ele-
ments of the European mind-set in a systematic way and draw some logical conclusions based on the 
Eurobarometer database of “The Future of Europe”. A key result of the study is a novel analysis of four 
European mind-set categories. These four categories of reporting are global mind-set, collaboration 
mind-set, virtual mind-set and innovation mind-set.
The primary interpretations and conclusions: The present study discusses the innovative and new in-
dicators of European mind-set evaluation (in chapter 5.1.). These indicators are linked to the mind-
set analysis with the Eurobarometer indicators. The economic growth in the euro area and mind-set 
measurements will be combined in the empirical analyses of the study. The analysis of mind-set and 
public opinion changes and changes of economic growth are reported for the euro area and for EU-27/
EU-28 regions. The key challenge is to develop four different mind-set indicators to evaluate economic 
growth and development. For the concept of a mind-set, we propose four key elements, global mind-
set, collaboration mind-set, virtual mind-set and innovation mind-set. We present a full argumentation 
of selected categories and cognitive mind-sets. The interpretation of new results is a very challenging 
task because there will be a EU-27 category after the BREXIT process. 

KEYWORDS: Standard Eurobarometer, “The Future of Europe” database, European Union, public opin-
ion, European mind-set, EU-28 countries, global mind-set, innovation mind-set, virtual mind-set, col-
laborative mind-set, economic growth, mind-set indicators.

Introduction
The aim of this study is to report major changes in public opinion in the European Union and 
some relevant results concerning European citizens’ future orientations. We also aim to propose 
and present some key indicators of European mind-set evaluation (chapter 5.1.). Our contribution 
in this article is that we link the Eurobarometer indicators to the mind-set analysis. Our objective 
is to analyse the mind-set changes and key changes of economic growth in the euro area. In our 
analyses, we pay special attention to positive and negative evaluations and gaps in these positive 
and negative evaluations of European citizens. 

Many corporate leaders and managers need an updated understanding of these management 
issues: A global mind-set, a virtual mind-set, an innovative mind-set and a collaborative mind-
set are all key issues in the changing environment. Corporation leaders and managers need 
to understand the key issues which are highly relevant for these mind-sets, especially for an 
innovative mind-set.

Global mind-set is changing the threats of globalisation into opportunities. In a global mind-set, 
the leaders’ dynamic capability is to use a worldwide, broad perspective to comprehend the un-
expected trends and opportunities towards realising personal, professional and organisation’s 
goals (Lahiri et al. 2008, Kaivo-oja & Lauraeus 2018, Kaivo-oja 2011).

Innovation mind-set is changing the threats of rapid technological change and scientific discov-
eries into opportunities. An Innovation mind-set is a mental framework of leaders and decision 
makers. Dynamic capability is to create the development and implementation of new fresh ideas 
and to solve problems and, therefore, finally implement new ways to do business and govern 
policy (Lahiri et al. 2008, Kaivo-oja & Lauraeus 2018, Kaivo-oja 2011).

Virtual mind-set is changing threats of hypercompetition into opportunities. A virtual mind-set 



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
34

allows top leaders with dynamic capabilities to focus their attention on an organisation’s core 
competencies (Lahiri et al. 2008, Kaivo-oja & Lauraeus 2018).

Collaboration mind-set is changing the threats of globalisation, STI changes and hypercompe-
tition into promising opportunities. A collaboration mind-set as a dynamic capability enables 
leaders to realise the importance of partners and thereby overcome the communication, cultural 
and temporal barriers (Lahiri et al. 2008, Kaivo-oja & Lauraeus 2018).

Our target is to present the full argumentation of selected categories and cognitive mind-sets. 
The study also analyses some key changes and tendencies in the European cognitive mind-set 
in 2004–2018. In the field of mind-set analysis, the critical issue of mental inertia will be dis-
cussed in this study. The study is based on the statistical platform of the European statistical 
research questionnaire “The Future of Europe”, which has some common platform elements in 
Eurobarometer studies (European Commission 2017). We also analyse conventional Standard 
Eurobarometer datasets (European Commission 2018) to provide a big picture about changes in 
public opinion in the European Union. 

 

 

Figure 1 
Mind-sets matter in 

the fields of European 
integration policies 

(modification of Lahiri et 
al. 2008)

Theory and 
methodological 

frame work

The study is based on the databases of previous Eurobarometer survey studies in 2004–2018 
(EU-28) and Standard Eurobarometer published in September 2018 (with EU-25 or EU-27 cat-
egories). The combined methods of the Eurobarometer studies are conventional survey study 
research methodology. The Standard Eurobarometer was established in 1974. Each survey con-
sists of approximately 1,000 face-to-face interviews per country. We compare some previous 
key Eurobarometer results with the database of Eurobarometer 2018. 

There has been scientific discussion about the Eurobarometer and its scientific research design. 
Especially Höpner and Jurczyk (2015) have reviewed previous surveys from 1995 and 2010 and 
presented some critical points of view. They have noted that the Eurobarometer systemically 
produces “integrationist” outcomes and there are needs to be critical, if one observes the viola-
tions of the rules of good public opinion research. Höpner and Jurczyk (2015, 6) present the rules 
of a good opinion poll:

1. It must be simple and understandable.

2. It must be non-hypothetical.

3. It must require only knowledge that respondents actually have.



35
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

4. It must avoid double stimuli.

5. It must avoid unclear terminology.

6. It must not have inexact time references.

7. With multiple items, it must have both negative and positive response options. 

8. It must avoid insinuation and leading questions.

9. It must have response options that are balanced, logically complete and free of overlap, and 

10.  It must avoid contextual effects. 

When we elaborate this list of ten rules, we can note that it is not easy to make a perfect sur-
vey questionnaire. We have to face this methodological problem in every survey questionnaire 
research project. Especially when we study opinions, values and mind-sets, we must be fully 
aware of the restrictions of survey questionnaires. There is always the possibility of ethno-
centric biases and measurement problems (see e.g. Leong & Ward 2006). If we expect to find 
and have a 100% perfect survey questionnaire, very few empirical research articles would be 
published in the fields social and cultural studies. As Höpner and Jurczyk (2015, 6) note, “single 
violations will always occur, even in the best opinion polls”. However, we always need critical 
reflections of the Eurobarometer questionnaire and its questions.

The Eurobarometer is a series of surveys, which have been conducted twice yearly since 1973 
across all the member countries of the EEC/EC/EU. Typically, approximately 1,000 persons 
aged 15 years or older are interviewed in each member country and the exact number var-
ying according to the size of the country. For example, in Germany approximately 1,500 per-
sons are interviewed, but in smaller countries, in Luxemburg, Cyprus and Malta, this figure 
is 500 persons (Höpner & Jurczyk 2015, 1). One strength of the Eurobarometer survey is that 
several standard questions recur over long periods of time. This study heavily relies on this 
strength of the Eurobarometer. Another strength of the Eurobarometer is that it also allows 
country-by-country comparisons. That is why various empirical studies have been made relying 
on the Eurobarometer. 

Our approach in this study can be compared to the previous survey study approach of Schwartz 
(1994, 2003, 2006), who presented seven cultural value dimensions (hierarchy, embeddedness, 
harmony, egalitarian commitment, intellectual autonomy, affective autonomy and mastery). 
Another similar kind of approach was Geert Hofstede’s (1979, 1980, 2001, Hoofstede & Hoof-
sted 2005) six dimensions of cultural differences (power distance, individualism, uncertainty 
avoidance, masculinity, long-term orientation and indulgence vs. restraint). Our theoretical plat-
form approach introduces four key elements of “European Mind-set”: Global mind-set, virtual 
mind-set, innovation mind-set and collaboration mind-set. This approach can be linked to the 
contribution of Lahiri, Perez-Nordtvedt and Renn (2008) and to previous global and regional 
mind-set analyses (see e.g. Naisbitt 2006). All of these three approaches are based on survey 
data analysis. Of course, like in all similar kinds of studies, there is a lot of room for improve-
ment in survey data, questionnaire designs and critical interpretations. 

The analysis of four mind-sets is performed with the 2017 Eurobarometer database. Some anal-
yses are of a pilot-type of methodological nature. “Pilot-type of methodological nature” means 
that no one has presented a similar methodological solution before this solution. For example, 
(1) gap analysis, (2) the integration of the Standard Eurobarometer data and GDP index data, (3) 
combo changes analyses and (4) mind-set analyses based on the Eurobarometer data are these 
kinds of pilot-type analyses. The study provides empirical insights about the European mind-
set changes in the context of global and European economy especially in 2017 (“The Future of 



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
36

Europe”, September 2017) on the basis of the latest European future oriented studies of Euroba-
rometer research in 2004–2018. The study analyses and presents some results of the changes in 
the European mind-set in 2004–2018. A key result of the study is a novel analysis of four Europe-
an mind-set categories. These four categories of reporting are global mind-set, virtual mind-set, 
collaboration mind-set and innovation mind-set.

In this chapter, we present some key empirical analyses of public opinion in the European Union. 
In Fig. 2, we report results about trust in national governments and parliaments and trust in the 
European Union. 

This analysis covers the years 2004–2018. We can observe that, in the long run, trust in the Eu-
ropean Union has decreased from 50% to 40%. Trust in national governments and in parliaments 
has also decreased in the period of 2004–2014, but in recent years, 2015–2018, trust in national 
political institutions has slightly increased. Trust level trends in national government and trust in 
national parliament have been pretty much at the same level in the survey evaluation period of 
the Eurobarometer. In the last Eurobarometer study in 2018, the situation was that an increasing 
majority of Europeans distrust national governments (61% “tend not to trust”, +2 percentage 
points since autumn 2017) and national parliaments (60%, +2). They also “tend not to trust” the 
European Union but to a lesser extent (48%, unchanged). We can say that confidence in the Eu-
ropean Union and national political institutions could be at a better level. 

In Fig. 3, we have analysed gaps between trust in the EU and national trust evaluations of Euro-
pean citizens. This analysis provides information about the difference in European and national 
policies. Key finding is that Europeans trust more in the European Union than in their national 
political institutions, but after 2009 this the leading trust factor of the European Union has shrunk. 

Key finding is that trust in the European Union was much higher than trust in national institutions 
in 2004–2008 than in the period of 2009–2018. The difference between trust in the EU and nation-
al trust variables has fallen considerably in 2009–2018. Considerable fall in trust ended in 2012 
and more balanced trust trend in the European Union was reached in 2012–2018. 

In Fig. 4, we report key trends of image of the European Union in 2006–2018.

We can say that the image of the European Union has deteriorated since the beginning of the 
evaluation period in autumn 2006. In total, a positive image was estimated by approx. 50% of 
interviewed European citizens but it fell to 30% in 2011. Image improved slightly to a higher level 
after 2013, when approx. 40% of the citizens rated the totally positive image. Correspondingly, 
totally negative image estimate in 2006 was evaluated by 15% of European citizens. At the turn 
of the year 2012 and 2013, the image was totally negative for 30% of Europeans. In this case, 
the EU’s image is at its worst. After that, the image has returned to a more positive level, with an 
estimated 21% of “totally negative” citizen assessments in spring 2018. In spring 2018, a majority 
of Europeans have a positive image of the EU (40%). Their proportion continues to exceed those 
who have a neutral image of the EU (37%), while just above a fifth of Europeans have a negative 
image of the EU (21%). These image results have remained perfectly unchanged since spring 
2017.

In Fig. 5, we report the gap analysis concerning citizens who had a totally positive minus totally 
negative image of the EU.

Our gap analysis reveals considerable changes in the public image of the European Union. The 
bottom level of the image was reached in 2012–2013. After these image crisis years, the image 
of the European Union has improved. 

Public opinion 
about the key 
issues of the 

European 
Union



37
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

Figure 2
Trust in national 
governments and 
parliaments and in the 
European Union  
(%, trend to trust). 
Source: European 
Commission 2018

Figure 3 
Gaps of trust: EU vs. 
national government 
and EU vs. national 
parliament, autumn  
2004 – spring 2018. 
Source: European 
Commission 2018. Note: 
This gap analysis informs 
about EU trust in relation 
to national institutions

Figure 4 
The image of the EU. 
Totally positive, neutral, 
totally negative, don’t 
know. Source: European 
Commission 2018



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
38

In Fig. 6, we report trends of the leading concern at the EU level. These trend analyses reveal 
considerable changes in the political environment of the European Union. 

The key changes in long-term trends have been the following: (1) Since 2011, concerns about the 
state of member states’ public finances have fallen; (2) after 2013, there has been a reduction in 
unemployment concerns; (3) after 2012, concerns about immigration have strengthened strongly, 
(4) after 2014, worries about terrorism have increased among European citizens. A fifth finding is 
that Europeans have not been very much worried about Europe’s position in the world and climate 

Figure 5
Long-run image of the 

EU. Gap analysis: Gap = 
Totally positive image 

assessments (%) minus 
totally negative image 

assessments (5) of the 
EU. Source: European 

Commission 2018

Figure 6
The most important 

issues facing the EU at 
the moment. Source: 

European Commission 
2018

change, even though these issues also show a slight increase in concern over long-term trend 
analysis. These changed citizens’ concerns are certainly influenced by the European Union’s policy 
both directly and directly. The political agenda of the EU is different today than it was in 2011. Cer-
tainly, the focus of migration and terrorism matters is higher than it was in 2011 in the EU. 

In spring 2018, immigration remains the leading concern of Europeans at the EU level, with 38% 
of all mentions (-1 percentage point since autumn 2017). At 29%, terrorism remains in the second 



39
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

position of concern at the EU level, although it has lost ground since autumn 2017 (-9, and -15 since 
spring 2017). The economic issues lag behind, even though they have registered slight increases 
since autumn 2017. The economic situation is in third place (18%, +1), ahead of the state of Member 
States’ public finances in fourth (17%, +1) and unemployment in fifth (14%, +1). 

In Fig. 7, we report the concerns of the most important issues in national policies in the EU region.

With regard to these national concerns, we can state the following: (1) Unemployment has been a 
major concern at the national level in the long term, but worries about unemployment have fallen 
since the spring of 2013 in the EU countries; (2) the economic situation has been a major concern in 
the EU countries in the long run evaluations; (4) other concerns such as health and social security, 
rising prices and pensions have since 2014 been on the same levels, (5) concerns for price levels and 
health and social security have fallen in a long-term perspective. Concerns about immigration have 
risen in the national evaluations of the EU. In autumn 2018, in the first position at the EU level with 
38% of mentions, immigration is seen as the most important issue facing the EU in 21 Member States 
(up from 14 in autumn 2017). Immigration is the second most important concern in all the remaining 
Member States, except Portugal, where it comes in fifth place (with 16% of the mentions). 

Figure 7 
The most important 
issues facing EU 
countries at the moment. 
Source: European 
Commission 2018

In autumn 2018, terrorism is mentioned by 29% of Europeans and is in first position in seven coun-
tries. In these countries, it reaches its highest scores in Lithuania (49%), Cyprus (44%) and Ireland 
(40%). However, terrorism is also much cited, although in second position, in the Czech Republic 
(47%), Bulgaria and Poland (both 42%) and Latvia (41%). Overall, it is the second most important 
issue in 15 Member States. In Germany, terrorism stands in equal second place with the state of 
the Member States’ public finances, with 24% of the mentions. 

In autumn 2018, with 18% of the mentions at the EU level, the economic situation is in third po-
sition: it is mentioned by at least a quarter of the population in Greece (30%), Cyprus (26%) and 
Spain (25%). In fourth position at the EU level, the state of Member States’ public finances is 
mentioned by 17% of EU citizens, most strikingly in the Netherlands (34%), Germany (24%), and 
Austria and Portugal (both 22%). High proportions of citizens also mentioned this item in Greece 
(27%) and Finland (22%). In fifth position, unemployment is mentioned by 14% of the respondents 
at the EU level. It reaches its highest score in Italy (28%), where it is in second place. In equal sixth 



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
40

place at the EU level (level with climate change) with 11% of the mentions, the EU’s influence in 
the world reaches its highest score in the Netherlands Gross domestic product at market prices 
where it is the third answer given (24%). Climate change reaches its highest score in Sweden, 
where it is in second position (29%). Climate change is in third place in Finland (25%), Denmark 
(24%) and Ireland (15%, equal with rising prices/inflation/cost of living), and it is also mentioned 
by more than a fifth of respondents in the Netherlands (22%). In autumn 2018, other items are 
mentioned by 10% or less at the EU level.

 Public 
opinion and 

economic 
growth in 

EU-28 region 

This chapter provides integrated analysis of public opinion and economic growth in the EU-28 
region. Integrated analysis means that we present combos of EU public opinion data and EU 
economic growth data. A combo (or combination chart) is a chart that plots multiple sets of data 
using two different chart types. A typical combo chart uses a line and a column. The data base of 
these analyses is the Eurobarometer report in 2018 (European Commission 2018 and GDP index 
data base of the Eurostat (Chain linked volumes, index 2010=100, Eurostat 2018). The integra-
tions of these two key European datasets provide new information about recent socio-economic 
changes in the European Union. Analyses are reported about (1) economic situation, (2) Europe-
an economic situation, (3) European economic crisis recovery (the impacts of crisis on jobs), (4) 
euro-optimism (or pessimism), (5) euro area attitudes and (6) euro currency attitudes. We have 
constructed gap analyses for these variables. The gap index data is constructed by calculating 
the totally positive assessments minus the totally negative assessments. 

In Fig. 8, we report trend evaluations about economic situation and GDP index development in 
the EU-28 region. 

Figure 8
Economic situation 

(gap index) and GDP 
index development in 

the EU-28 region, years 
2004–2018. Sources: 

European Commission 
2018, Eurostat 2018

These Eurobarometer analyses reveal that economic situation analysis in the Standard Euroba-
rometer data and GDP index has been interlinked in historical trend analysis. When in autumn 
2008 the economic situation was evaluated to be weakest, the GDP index was also at the lowest 
level. Gradually, both important indices have improved and they reached about the same level in 
2017 that they had in 2007. Recovery from financial crisis has taken about 10 years.

In Fig. 9, we report trend evaluations about European economic situation and GDP index devel-
opment in the EU-28 region. 



41
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

Figure 9
European economic 
situation and GDP index 
development in the 
EU-28 region, years 
2004–2018. Sources: 
European Commission 
2018, Eurostat 2018

This empirical data based analysis reveals that European economic situation analysis in the 
Standard Eurobarometer data and GDP index has been interlinked in historical trend analysis. 
Gradually, both important indices have improved, and they reached about the same level in 2017 
that they had in 2004. This analysis is a little bit different compared to the previous analysis be-
cause there was an additional period of economic euro-pessimism in 2010–2011, which we were 
not able to observe in the previous index analysis. The recovery from the financial crisis has taken 
about 10 years. 

In Fig. 10, we report trend evaluations about European economic crisis recovery and GDP index 
development in the EU-28 region. 

Figure 10
European economic 
crisis recovery and GDP 
index development in 
the EU-28 region, years 
2009–2018. Sources: 
European Commission 
2018, Eurostat 2018 

This analysis does not show a clear linkage between the European economic crisis recovery data 
and GDP index development. Especially in spring 2012, the results of Standard Eurobarometer 
were extremely negative. In this historical point, the lack of confidence and disbelief among Eu-
ropeans was at its peak. Restoring faith to European economic gain has taken a long time.

In Fig. 11, we report trend evaluations about euro-optimism and GDP index development in the 
EU-28 region. 



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
42

This Standard Eurobarometer analysis reveals that Europe’s bleak years were in 2011–2013. In 
this case, the mind-sets of Europeans were more tinted with pessimistic shades than optimism. 
Another moment of pessimism can be observed in spring 2016 and autumn 2016.

In Fig. 12, we report trend evaluations about euro area attitudes and GDP index development in 
the EU-28 region. 

Attitudes towards the euro area have clearly followed economic growth development in Europe. 
As the economy has grown strongly, the attitude towards the euro area has also become a pos-
itive one.

In Fig. 13, we report trend evaluations about the euro currency attitudes and GDP index develop-
ment in the EU-28 region. 

Furthermore, the attitudes towards the euro currency have clearly followed economic growth 
development in Europe. As the economy has grown strongly, the attitude towards the euro area 
has also become a positive one. It is interesting to observe that attitudes towards the euro cur-

Figure 11
Euro-optimism and GDP 

index development in 
the EU-28 region, years 

2007–2018. Sources: 
European Commission 

2018, Eurostat 2018

Figure 12
Euro area attitudes and 

GDP index development 
in the EU-28 region, 

years 2004–2018. 
Sources: European 
Commission 2018, 

Eurostat 2018



43
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

Figure 13
Euro currency attitudes 
and GDP index 
development in the 
EU-28 region, years 
2004–2018. Sources: 
European Commission 
2018, Eurostat 2018

rency were very positive in 2004–2009, but in 2010–2013 there was a period of very negative euro 
attitudes. The attitude to euro currency has become more positive after spring 2013. In autumn 
2018, the attitude towards the euro currency reached the same level as in autumn 2009. 

Mind-set 
study  

In the field of future studies, the concept and analysis of the mind-set have been discussed in 
many global studies (Naisbitt 2006, Lahiri et al. 2008, Kaivo-oja and Lauraeus 2018). From this 
perspective, it is interesting to elaborate the European mind-set and its status. This chapter 5 is 
based on “The Future of Europe” datasets (European Commission 2017). From this perspective, 
this part of the study is relevant for European integration studies. The objective of this study is to 
present the novel analyses of four European mind-set categories. These four categories of re-
porting are (1) global mind-set, (2) collaboration mind-set, (3) virtual mind-set and (4) innovation 
mind-set.

The competitive landscape is a key element for the European integration environment. Globali-
sation, hypercompetition and rapid technical change create key preconditions for the European 
Integration environment. The key challenge for leaders is to change the threats of competitive 
landscape into opportunities. The role of human mind-sets is very important in this respect. As 
we know, the mind matters (Lahiri et al. 2008). A global mind-set or the ability to view the world 
using a broad perspective converts globalisation threats into growth opportunities by thinking 
beyond geographic boundaries, valuing integration across borders and appreciating regional and 
cultural diversity. An innovation mind-set is a mental framework that fosters development and 
the implementation of new ideas. A virtual mind-set, or the ability of managers to hand over their 
companies’ activities to external providers, turns hypercompetition into prospects for growth by 
facilitating flexibility and responsiveness. Finally, a collaboration mind-set means willingness al-
lowing companies or corporations to engage in business and other partnerships. A collaborative 
mind-set integrates all other mind-sets which can lead to synergy by business complementa-
rities (Lahiri et al. 2008). We can conclude that these four critical mind-sets to manage techno-
logical changes and scientific discoveries. Some of them are disruptive. The ability to change 

Global mind-
set: pilot 
results  



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
44

threats into opportunities is a critical asset in the disruption and competition conditions (Lahiri et 
al. 2008, Krupp and Schoemaker 2014).

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report an analysis of the global 
mind-set (Fig. 14).

According to First global mind-set analysis: The major global challenges are (1) Social equality 
45%, (2) Protecting the environment 35%, (3) Free trade and market economy 23%, (4) Cultural 
diversity 19% and (5) Traditions 13%.

On the basis of dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report second analysis of global mind-
set of Europeans (Fig. 15).

The key result of the global mind-set analysis is: In the European global mind-set, social equal-
ity and solidarity and environmental protection are the dominating mind-set in relation to free 
trade/market economy. Cultural diversity and traditions are less dominating mind-set items in 
relation to free trade/market economy.

Figure 14
First global mind-set 

analysis. Major global 
challenges. Source: 

European Commission 
2017

Figure 15
Second global mind-set 

analysis. Major global 
challenges. Source: 

European Commission 
2017

Global mindset: QC3 From the following items, which two our society 

emphasize in order to face major global challenges?

Global mindset: Major global challenges: Key trends in 

Eurobarometer "The Future of Europe" in 2017



45
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report an analysis of the virtual 
mind-set (Fig. 16).

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report the second operationalisation 
of the virtual mind-set (Fig. 17).

Virtual mind-set: European virtual mind-set is stronger at home use than in work use and work-
ing conditions. 

Figure 16
First virtual mind-set 
analysis. The use of 
Internet at work and 
home. Source: European 
Commission 2017

Figure 17
Second virtual mind-
set analysis. Use of the 
Internet at work and 
home. Relative use: 
Home vs. work. Relative 
index analyses. Source: 
European Commission 
2017

Virtual mindset: Key trend in Eurobarometer "The Future of Europe" in

2017. Internet use at home vs work-Index in Eurobarometer 2017

Virtual mindset: D62.1 and D62.2 - Use of the Internet at work and home

Virtual  
mind-set 

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report the first operationalisation of 
the collaboration mind-set (Fig. 18).

According to the first collaboration mind-set analysis: Most of the countries have a totally posi-
tive view (70%), a somewhat positive view (54%) and a very positive view (15%). Very few coun-
tries have a very negative view (6%), but some countries have a somewhat negative (21%), or 
totally negative view (27%).

Collaboration 
mind-set



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
46

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report the second operationalisation 
of the collaboration mind-set (Fig. 19).

The key result of collaborative mind-set analysis is: European citizens are mostly positive in 
relation EU-28, and the relation of very positive/very negative is 2.5, the relation of somewhat 
positive/somewhat negative is 2.57, totally positive/totally negative is 2.56, positive collaborative 
mind-set is quite strong. 

Figure 18
First collaboration mind-

set analysis. Positive 
or negative view about 

EU-28. Source: European 
Commission 2017

Figure 19
Second collaboration 

mind-set analysis. 
Positive or negative view 

about EU-28. Relational 
index analyses. Source: 
European Commission 

2017

Collaboraition of the dataset: QCS.1 As regards each of the followind countries or group of

countries, do you have a positive or a negative view about it? EU-28

Collaboraition mindset in relation to EU-28: A positive or a negative view about EU-28

Innovation 
mind-set

On the basis of the dataset of “The Future of Europe”, we can report the first analysis of the inno-
vation mind-set (Fig. 20).

The key result of innovation mind-set analysis is: In general, Europeans consider themselves as 
tolerant citizens.



47
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

Figure 20
First innovation mind-set 
analysis. Tolerance and 
openness to others. 
Source: European 
Commission 2017

Figure 21
Second innovation mind-
set analysis. Tolerance 
and openness to others. 
Relational index analysis. 
Source: European 
Commission 2017

In this study, we have presented and reported three different analyses, which were based on 
Standard Eurobarometer (European Commission 2018) and “The Future of Europe” data (Euro-
pean Commission 2017). 

 _ The first analysis was a historical analysis of the changes in the European public opinion in gen-
eral. We analysed the development of confidence and trust vis-à-vis the European Union and the 
national political institutions in general. We also analyse the development of the image of the EU 
and general concerns of European citizens at European and national levels. The second analysis 
linked the analysis of the six key barometer variables to economic growth analysis. 

Innovation minset: QC4.6 For each of these values, please tell me if they are best 

embodied by the EU, by other countries (or groups of contries) in the world or by 

both? Tolerance and openness to others

Innovation minset: Tolerance and openness to others. Eu-28/Other countries

Conclusions



E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2
48

 _ Our combo analyses (combined data charts) revealed that the moods of the European people 
seem to closely follow the development and changes in economic growth performance. How-
ever, there is a need to make more statistical and scientific analyses in this European policy 
issue, at least, and we need more statistical regression and correlation analyses, which would 
be worth conducting another research article. When the economy is doing well, the mood 
improves. If, however, economic development is weaker, people’s mood sinks, and pessimism 
dominates the European mind-set. This kind of sociocultural processes can be observed when 
we look at our combo analysis. The Eurobarometer analysis also revealed that the atmos-
phere has not followed the evolution of economic growth completely linearly but has rather 
shown periods of pessimism and barometer estimates that have remained exceptionally neg-
ative. It has been taking time to restore confidence and trust back after economic and financial 
crisis after 2007. 

 _ The third analysis presented the mind-set analysis on the basis of “The Future of Europe” da-
tasets. This research was experimental in nature but showed that Eurobarometer data offers 
interesting opportunities for broad and interesting European mind-set research. 

 _ Many policymakers, corporate leaders and managers need an updated understanding of man-
agement issues: A global mind-set, a virtual mind-set, an innovative mind-set and a collabora-
tive mind-set are all key issues in the European Integration environment. Cognitive skills and 
mind-sets of global leaders are an important part of new management thinking. We can note 
that the awareness of mind-sets and cognitive models is significant for European integration 
policy. There is a need to conduct more research in this field. 

References European Commission (2017). Future of Europe. 
Special Eurobarometer  467. September-October 
2017. European Commission, Directorate-General 
for Communication, Brussels.

European Commission (2018). Public Opinion in 
the European Union. First Results. Standard Euro-
barometer 89, Spring 2018, March 2018. European 
Commission, Directorate-General for Communica-
tion, Brussels.

Eurostat (2018). Gross domestic product at mar-
ket prices. Chain linked volumes, index 2010=100. 
Datasets. Extracted 29.6.2018 9:16:30.

Hofstede, G. (1979) Value systems in forty coun-
tries. In L. Eckensberger, W. Lonner, Y. Poortinga 
Eds.) Cross-cultural Contributions to Psychology, 
Swets & Zeitlinger, Amsterdam. pp. 389-407.

Hofstede, G. (1980). Culture’s Consequences: Inter-
national Differences in Work-related Values. Sage, 
Beverly-Hills, CA.

Hofstede, G. (2001). Comparing Values, Behaviors, 
Institutions and Organizations across Nations. 2nd 
Edition. Sage, Thousand Oaks, CA.

Hofstede, G.; Hofstede, G.J. (2005). Cultures and 
Organizations: Software of the Mind. Revised and 
expanded 2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill, New York.

Höpner, M. and Jurczyk, B. (2015). How the Eu-
robarometer Blurs the Line between Research 
and Propaganda. MPIfG Discussion Paper 15/6. 
Max-Planck-Institut für Gesellschaftsforschung, 
Köln, Germany.

Kaivo-oja, J. 2011. Future of Innovation Systems 
and Systemic Innovation Systems: Towards Better 
Innovation Quality with New Innovation Manage-
ment Tools. FFRC e-Book 8/2011. Finland Future 
Research Centre. University of Turku. Turku.

Kaivo-oja, J. and Lauraeus, T. (2017). Corporate 
knowledge management, foresight tools, prima-
ry economically affecting disruptive technologies, 
corporate technological foresight challenges 2008–
2016, and the most important technology trends for 
year 2017. In Lorna Uden, Wei Lu, I-Hsien Ting (Eds.) 
Knowledge Management in Organizations. 12th In-
ternational Conference, KMO 2017, Beijing, China, 
August 21-24, 2017, Proceedings. Communications 
in Computer and Information Science book series 
(CCIS, volume 731), Springer International Publish-
ing AG, Cham, Switzerland: 239-253. Web:

Kaivo-oja J., and Lauraeus T., (2018). The VUCA ap-
proach as a solution concept to corporate foresight 
challenges and global technological disruption”, 
foresight, Vol. 20 Issue: 1, pp.27-49, https://doi.
org/10.1108/FS-06-2017-0022 



49
E u r o p e a n  I n t e g r a t i o n  S t u d i e s 2 0 1 8 / 1 2

Krupp, S. and Schoemaker, P.J.H. (2014). Winning 
the Long Game. How Strategic Leaders Shape the 
Future? Public Affairs, US, New York.

Lahiri, S., Perez-Nordtvedt, L. and Renn, R.W. 
(2008). “Business horizons, will the new compet-
itive landscape cause your firm’s decline? It de-
pends on your mind-set”, Business Horizons, Vol. 
51 No. 4, pp. 311-320. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
bushor.2008.02.004

Leong, C-H. and Ward, C. (2006). Cultural values 
and attitudes toward immigrants and multicultur-
alism: The case of the Eurobarometer survey on 
racism and xenophobia. International Journal of In-
tercultural Relations, Vol. 30, 799-810. https://doi.
org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2006.07.001

Naisbitt, John, (2006). Mind Set!: Reset Your Think-
ing and See the Future. Collins.

Schwartz, S. (1994). Beyond individualism-collectivism: 
New cultural dimensions of values. Cross-cultural Re-
search and Methodology Series, Vol. 18, 85-119.

Schwartz, S. (2003). Mapping and interpreting cul-
tural differences arounfd the world. In H. Vinkemn, 
S. Soeters, P. Ester (Eds.) Comparing Cultures, Di-
mensions of Culture in a Comparative Perspective. 
Brill, Leiden, Netherlands.

Schwartz, S. (2006). Value orientations. Measure-
ment, antecedents and consequences across the 
nations. In R. Jowell, C. Roberts, R. Fitzgerald, G. Eva 
(Eds.) Measuring Attitudes Cross-Nationally – Les-
sons from European Social Survey. Sage, London.

About the 
authors

JARI KAIVO-OJA 

Dr., research director,, adjunct prof.
Finland Future Research Centre, Turku School of 
Economics, University of Turku 

Address
Tel. +358 41 753 0244
E-mail: jari.kaivo-oja@utu.fi

THERESA LAURAÉUS

Dr., senior researcher
Finland Future Research Centre, Turku School of 
Economics, University of Turku

Fields of research interests
PhD (Information System Sciences), M.Sc. (Inter-
active Multimedia, Growing Enterprise Strategies, 
Econ)

Address
Tel. +358 40 353 8296
E-mail: theresa.lauraeus@utu.fi