The term "Scandinavian way" is often misused; it typically refers to the broader
Nordic model (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland), not just Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden). Key features include:
- Strong welfare state: Universal healthcare, education, and social security funded by high taxes.
- Gender equality: Generous parental leave, equal pay efforts, and high female workforce participation.
- Social trust: Low corruption, high civic engagement, and consensus-driven policymaking.
- Work-life balance: Emphasis on shorter workweeks, strong labor rights, and leisure time.
- Sustainability: Heavy investment in green energy and environmental policies.
It’s not a rigid "way" but a system prioritizing collective well-being over pure individualism. (498 characters)