The EU is actually half a billion persons, so not quite so impersonal. Half a billion people in 28 nations represents a very wide diversity of viewpoints and aspirations. Decisions are made by all 28 nations, of which we are currently one, and a very influential one at that - until the current fiasco started. You talk as if the EU makes big decisions in secret in a hidden garret somewhere then imposes them on the unsuspecting half billion. Well we are the EU and so far we have agreed with almost every new law, rule and regulation, demurring at very few and modifying very many via our constructive input. Your talk is part of the leave side's mythology that was dishonestly foisted on the British public. As for that EU army, as long as the UK is a member it can never happen. Ironic, innit, that it will be far more on the cards after we leave and no longer have the veto as we do now. And you can bet your life we'll have to be a part of it. Unintended consequences, eh?