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The political and cultural determinants of the “school miracle” in modern Finland

https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6339-2025-5-90-112

Abstract

The article analyzes the basic characteristics of modern Finnish school education, which are the result of a purposeful state policy in the sphere.

The main principle of the Finnish welfare state is the principle of equality, the intention to prevent social-class and socio-cultural divisions in society, and to harmonize relations between different social groups as much as possible. Finland’s public policy in the field of education is based on the deeply ingrained belief, both in the country’s legal system and in the public consciousness, that every citizen of the country has an equal right to education. Finland’s rise to the highest level of education was the result of a number of political decisions that were deliberately made, thought out and sustained over a very long period of time, as well as factors inherent in the culture and history of the country.

The use of Hofstede’s methodology of cultural change makes it possible to substantiate the conclusion that the key to the success of school education in this country lies in its compliance with the value orientations, culture and traditions of Finnish society. Accordingly, when using its main components in other social systems, it is necessary to adapt them to the political and cultural characteristics of the respective country. 

About the Author

V. V. Nasonkin
RUDN University
Russian Federation

Vladimir V. Nasonkin, Dr. of Sci. (Political Science), professor

6, Miklukho-Maklaya St., Moscow, 117198



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For citations:


Nasonkin V.V. The political and cultural determinants of the “school miracle” in modern Finland. RSUH/RGGU Bulletin Series "Political Science. History. International Relations". 2025;(5):90-112. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6339-2025-5-90-112

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