denkbeeldenwereld

Denkbeeldenwereld is a Dutch term describing the world of ideas that shapes how people understand and act in political and social life. It comprises shared beliefs, values, assumptions, and boundaries about what is sensible, desirable, or possible. It functions as a mental map or frame that influences perception, interpretation of events, and policy choices, often without explicit justification. The concept helps explain why certain policy options are discussed as realistic while others are deemed unthinkable, regardless of empirical alternatives.

Usage and scope: The term is used in political science, sociology, and media analysis in the Netherlands and, to some extent, in Flanders, to analyze the discourse of elites, policymakers, and public actors. Denkbeeldenwereld can be specific to a party, a profession, or a national culture, and it can shift over time due to crises, leadership changes, or social change. It interacts with power by privileging certain frames, which become the accepted way of thinking.

Relation to other concepts: It relates to framing, political culture, and discourse analysis, and is often discussed alongside mental models and hegemonic ideas.

Criticism: Some scholars warn that the notion is ill-defined and dependent on interpretation, risking circular reasoning. Supporters emphasize its value for understanding continuity and constraint in politics beyond formal institutions.

See also: framing, political culture, discourse analysis, mental models, elite theory.