samfunnsbaserte

Samfunnsbaserte is a Norwegian adjective describing something that is grounded in or based on society, social conditions, or social institutions rather than solely on individual factors or market mechanisms. The term derives from the word samfunn (society) and basert (based), and it is commonly used to indicate that a program, policy, or approach takes social context and collective welfare into account.

In practice, samfunnsbaserte formulations are common in policy, public health, social sciences, and welfare work. Phrases such as samfunnsbaserte tiltak, samfunnsbaserte løsninger, or samfunnsbasert forskning signal that the effort aims to address social determinants like income, education, housing, equity, and community engagement. The concept often involves collaboration with communities and public institutions, and it emphasizes interventions that benefit society as a whole rather than focusing solely on individual choices.

The term is descriptive rather than tied to a specific ideology. It is frequently contrasted with more individual- or market-oriented approaches, such as individbaserte or markedsbaserte tiltak. While it can strengthen attention to social justice and collective welfare, its use requires clear definitions of which social factors are being addressed and how success will be measured. Critics may warn against vagueness if the phrase is applied without explicit criteria or measurable outcomes.

See also: social determinants of health, community-based approaches, public welfare, Norwegian welfare state, social policy.