perusperiaatteen

Perusperiaatteen ismin Finnish term for the genitive form of perusperiaate, meaning a fundamental or basic principle. It refers to a central normative rule that underpins a system, policy, or theory and serves as a reference point for interpretation and decision-making.

Etymology and usage. The word is formed from perus- meaning base or fundamental and periaate meaning principle, with the genitive suffix -en producing perusperiaatteen as “of the fundamental principle.” In Finnish discourse the phrase appears in contexts such as law, public administration, and ethics to denote the core standard guiding actions, evaluations, or rulings. Common collocations include perusperiaatteen noudattaminen (adherence to the fundamental principle) and perusperiaatteen mukaisesti (in accordance with the fundamental principle).

Context and characteristics. A perusperiaate is not a single fixed rule but a contextual, field-specific standard that helps shape interpretation and policy design. The concept is often invoked to justify why certain choices are preferred over others, emphasizing consistency, fairness, or legitimacy as central criteria. When used in possessive form, perusperiaatteen highlights the principle’s influence on particular decisions, procedures, or regulatory frameworks.

Relation to other terms. Perusperiaatteen is closely related to perusperiaatteet (foundational principles in plural) and to broader concepts such as periaate (principle), arvo (value), and oikeusvaltioperiaate (the rule-of-law principle). It provides a concise way to reference the most foundational standard relevant to a given context within Finnish academic and public discourse.