ABSTRACT
This chapter presents three stages of Nordic modernization. The first stage – that of techno-economic modernity – boasted spectacular technological innovation, industrial revolution and unprecedented productivity. The second stage – that of socially sustainable modernity – introduced the ethos of social care and partnership into the techno-economic dynamic. The third stage – what one call "eco-modernity" – has emerged to address mounting environmental and climate challenges. Needless to say that each stage of modernization had its liabilities tied to a progressive depletion of human and environmental resources. In the transition to the digitalized economy, with its more specialized and flexible work life, the Nordic model has to transform its architecture in tandem with the underlying techno-economy and socio-cultural innovation. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
