This book offers a comparative and multidisciplinary examination of the formulation and implementation of public policy within the Nordic region. It seeks to present these efforts within the context of a frequently understudied area of the world which, nonetheless, is often cited as a trend setter for the global community. The book addresses this paradoxical situation and provides new insights into the operation of the Nordic community and the commonalities and discontinuities that are revealed in their undertakings in public policymaking. It draws upon the perspectives and insights of scholars from across the region and considers policy efforts ranging from economic development and social welfare to defense and environmental protection. The book provides ample evidence why the Nordic region deserves greater attention and further scholarly inquiry.

The volume is designed to be of use to both the scholarly community and a more general audience. It is directed to both Nordic and non-Nordic readers. It is envisioned to be read by both researchers already engaged in studying public policy development within the region as well as those desiring to expand their comparative analysis to include Nordic examples. The book could be used as a supplementary text for undergraduate or graduate courses focusing on the region, the specific policy areas addressed, or comparative public policy analysis.

Utilizes a comparative method rather than a single case study approach Authors are drawn from all of the Nordic countries and provide multiple disciplinary perspectives Multidisciplinary content addresses the complete Nordic region

Inhalt
Part I:Overview.- An Introduction to the Nordic Region.- The Evolution of Public Policies in the Nordic Countries.- Part II: The Contributions of Political Culture and the Welfare State.- Nordic Political Culture: Democracy, Emancipative Values and the Rise of Populism.- Welfare and Democracy in the Nordic Region: A Context for Policymaking.- Part III:The Influences of Globalization and Liberalization.- How Financial Globalization Transformed the Nordic Model and Public Policy.- The Diffusion of Trust Reforms within the Nordic Countries.- Part IV:Security and Foreign Relations.- Nordic Understandings of Security: Commonalities and the End of Exceptionalism?.- Exceptionalism and Inner Diversity within Nordic Foreign Policy: The Case of the Arctic Council.- Part V: Climate Change and the Environment.- The Impact of Climate Change on the Nordics from a One Health Perspective (Ab)using the Land: Environmental and Climate Justice in the North.- Part VI:Final Observations.- Summary and Conclusions.