Perussuuntuu

Perussuuntuu is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "basic well-being" or "fundamental welfare." It refers to a state of having one's essential needs met, enabling a person to live a healthy and secure life. This concept encompasses not only material necessities but also psychological and social aspects crucial for human flourishing.

Key components of perussuuntuu include adequate housing, sufficient nutrition, access to healthcare, and the opportunity for education. Beyond these basic provisions, it also involves a sense of safety and security, the freedom to participate in society, and the absence of significant social or economic exclusion. The concept emphasizes that a certain baseline level of welfare is a prerequisite for individuals to pursue their full potential and contribute to society.

In Finnish society, the idea of perussuuntuu is closely linked to the welfare state model. Policies and social services are often designed with the aim of ensuring that all citizens can achieve and maintain a satisfactory level of basic well-being. This can include social security systems, public health services, and educational opportunities that are accessible to everyone. The term highlights the societal responsibility to create conditions where everyone has the opportunity to live a decent life.