Egalitarianism in Scandinavia

This book discusses egalitarianism in the Scandinavian countries through historically oriented and empirically based studies on social and political change. The chapters engage with issues related to social class, political conflict, the emergence of the welfare state, public policy, and changing conceptualizations of equality. The social and cultural complexity of the Scandinavian societies are critically discussed and re-examined in comparative terms. How does egalitarianism in the Scandinavian countries differ from other contemporary versions of egalitarianism? Is it meaningful to continue to nurture the idea of Scandinavian exceptionalism in an age of economic crises and globalization? One foundational assumption in the book is that egalitarianism is not merely a relationship between specific, influential enlightenment ideas and patterns of policy, but an aspect of social organization characterized by specific forms of political tension, mobilization, and conflict resolution – as well as emerging cultural values such as individual autonomy. As particularly ambitious welfare states, the Scandinavian countries provide a fascinating laboratory for exploring future prospects for democracy and its potential for achieving enlightenment visions, among which egalitarianism is key. The book meets the urgent need for a renewal of perspectives on egalitarianism in the contemporary world, its origins, transformations, and resilience.