Vormistatavus

Vormistatavus is a concept that originates from Estonian sociology and social science. It refers to the fascination with the ideal of mixing folk culture with modern achievements and innovations. This concept emerged during the post-communist era in Estonia, when the country was transitioning from a planned economy to a market-based economy.

The word "Vormism" in Vormistatavus is a combination of "vorm," meaning shape or form, and the Finnish word "ismi," which means classification or definition. Therefore, Vormistatavus can be translated to "the pursuit of a singular or exemplary shape" or "the cult of the exemplary form."

In the context of Estonian society, Vormistatavus is often associated with the perceived desire to create a modern, Westernized identity for the country. Proponents of this concept believe that adopting Western social patterns, technologies, and values can help Estonia join the European community and gain recognition as a modern nation. Critics argue that Vormistatavus represents a nostalgic longing for a unique folk identity, which can lead to the dismissal of traditional values and customs.

Vormistatavus also implies a sense of longing for the adoption of postmodern, neobourgeois, or post-traditional identity types. As Estonian society undergoes rapid changes, Vormistatavus remains a topic of discussion in academic and sociological communities. The concept represents a fascinating case of how a country's identity is shaped by its cultural and economic transformation. Despite ongoing debates, Vormistatavus serves as an invaluable tool for understanding the complexities of modernization in Estonia and the role of cultural identity in this process.