Monday, September 8, 2008

Folkelighed

Folkelighed is a Danish concept originated by N.F.S. Grundtvig. Grundtvig was a prolific writer who was, among other things, a poet, scholar, philosopher, bishop, composer, and educational thinker. It was Grundtvig who is credited with the folk high school movement in Scandinavia.

The notion of folkelighed was born during the transition in Denmark from an absolute monarchy to democracy. In many ways the idea was Grundtvig's attempt to reconcile the ideas of equality and freedom. After all, how does one maintain an equitable society when freedom allows there to be winners and losers. An important aspect of Grundtvig's thought was the notion that freedom only exists in reciprocity. One cannot truly be free unless one's neighbor is also free. Thus, the notion of freedom was paramount, but always with regard to the common good.

Perhaps Uffe Østergård put it best when he said, folkelighed "refers to enlightened, responsible and tolerant participation in the exercise of power." It is in this spirit that this blog is created and in which I hope thoughtful discussions will ensue.

The impetus for this blog also stems from what I see as a need to transcend the knee-jerk reactions, pundits, slogans, and labeling that passes for thoughtful criticism and reflection. It aims to understand how we perceive truth in politics and the role our emotions play on our beliefs and political positions. Ultimately, this blog will likely pose more questions than answers.

Please feel free to leave thoughts, comments, and questions.

No comments: