ríkisfráhyggjum

Ríkisfarhyggjum is an Icelandic term that translates roughly to "state-centrism" or "statism." It refers to a political ideology or a worldview that places a strong emphasis on the role and importance of the state in society. Individuals who subscribe to ríkisfarhyggjum generally believe that the state is the primary or most effective mechanism for organizing society, achieving collective goals, and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

This perspective can manifest in various ways, often involving a belief in the state's capacity to manage the economy, provide extensive social services, and direct national development. It may advocate for robust government intervention in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The extent of state control and intervention can vary significantly within the spectrum of ríkisfarhyggjum, ranging from moderate social democracy to more authoritarian forms of governance.

Conversely, those who oppose ríkisfarhyggjum might advocate for greater individual liberty, free markets, and a reduced role for government, often emphasizing civil society or individual initiative as preferable alternatives to state-led solutions. The concept is important for understanding political discourse and policy debates within Iceland and other Nordic countries where discussions about the size and scope of the welfare state are ongoing.