Doktrinen

Doktrinen, meaning "the doctrine" in Norwegian and Swedish, is a term used to describe a formal set of beliefs, principles, or guidelines that are espoused by an institution, movement, or individual. It often carries authoritative weight within its domain, though the degree of binding force varies.

Etymology and scope: The word derives from Latin doctrina, "instruction" or "teaching," via Old Church Latin and later European languages. In Scandinavian usage, doktrinen denotes a defined body of teaching, while doktriner (plural) or related terms describe multiple sets of doctrine.

Contexts: In religion, a doctrine is an officially taught set of beliefs, such as creeds, cardinal truths, or moral guidelines. In law and jurisprudence, legal doctrine refers to persisting principles and interpretations developed by courts and scholars. In the military, doctrine is a framework for planning and executing operations and for training. In politics and foreign policy, doctrinal statements outline a government's or party's core principles and strategic posture. In science and professional fields, doctrine can describe accepted methods, standards, and normative positions.

Development and distinction: Doctrines can evolve with new evidence, reinterpretation, or shifts in values. They are distinct from dogma when they remain open to revision and debate; they differ from theory, which explains phenomena rather than prescribing practice. The term is often used descriptively in scholarship and policy analysis rather than as a legal or formal regulation.

See also: doctrine; dogma; creed; policy; jurisprudence.