Samfunnsøkonomisk

Samfunnsøkonomisk is a Norwegian term used as an adjective to describe analyses, policies, or perspectives that pertain to the economy of society as a whole. It covers how the allocation of scarce resources affects social welfare and well-being, including both economic and non-economic outcomes. In English, the closest equivalents are socioeconomic or welfare-economic.

In practice, samfunnsøkonomisk analysis often involves assessing costs and benefits to society as a whole, rather than only to private actors or firms. Common tools include cost-benefit analysis, cost-utility analysis, and impact assessments, sometimes with consideration of externalities, distributional effects, and intergenerational outcomes. Analysts may apply discount rates, quantify health, environmental, educational, and productivity effects, and evaluate alternative policy options.

The concept is widely used in public policy, public administration, and research. It informs decision-making in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and environmental policy, balancing efficiency with equity and sustainability. The term signals a broad frame that includes economic efficiency, social impact, and long-term welfare, rather than focusing solely on market transactions or corporate profitability. Limitations arise from value judgments in weighting outcomes, measurement challenges, and data limitations, which can affect the interpretation of results.