The WaVE project as a record of religious and social transformations in northern Europe

Abstract

This chapter explores the idea of secularisation or religious change and the increasing visibility of religion in northern Europe. In the 20th century, the links between welfare and religion were thought to be fading. Today, however, it is clear that this assumption was based on a definition of religion as something for ‘others’, for those deviating from a dominant secular culture. In the Nordic countries, culture is understood as broad, ‘cool’, or inclusive. It is based on the rule of law and is linked to modernisation and the emancipation of the individual rather than close family ties. This is also true of religion, which is similarly perceived. This provides the basis for a broad culture of trust to which minority as well as majority religions can adhere.