samhørighed

Samhørighed is a Danish term used in sociology and political science to describe the level of social connectedness, belonging, and solidarity within a society or community. It encompasses trust among individuals, willingness to cooperate, shared norms and values, and the perception that members of the group look after one another. In research, samhørighed is closely related to concepts such as social cohesion, social capital, inclusion, and civic participation.

Key dimensions of samhørighed include the strength of social bonds (family, friendships, and neighbourly ties), the extent of trust and reciprocity within and between groups, the degree of inclusion of minorities and newcomers, and the level of active participation in communal life and democratic processes. It also relates to the perceived legitimacy and fairness of institutions and policies that govern equality of opportunity.

Determinants of samhørighed are typically discussed in terms of social and economic conditions, such as a robust welfare state, income equality, high-quality education, and inclusive immigration policies. Urban design and public space, media narratives, and effective governance can also influence the sense of belonging and community trust.

Implications of high samhørighed include enhanced social stability, better health and well-being, resilient responses to crises, and stronger democratic participation. Critics note that the concept can be ambiguous and culturally variable, and that measures of cohesion may overlook power imbalances or mask exclusion. Despite debates, samhørighed remains a central lens for understanding how societies organize and sustain themselves.