Conformatiestaat
Conformatiestaat is a term used in Dutch political science to describe a state whose primary objective is to shape and sustain social conformity to a defined set of norms, values, or behaviors. In a conformatiestaat, political legitimacy and stability are pursued not only through formal institutions and rule of law but also through normative socialization that aligns citizens’ beliefs and practices with official ideals. The concept is often discussed in contrast to liberal-pluralist or liberal-democratic models, where pluralism and individual autonomy are emphasized.
Key features include central guidance of education and public life, control or heavy influence over media and
Scope and usage: the term is used to describe both historical and contemporary regimes. It often applies
Criticism and debates: scholars caution that an emphasis on conformity can erode civil liberties, dissent, diversity
See also: social control, normalization, state ideology, paternalism.