National Identity and the Varieties of Capitalism

Book excerpt: Denmark has out-performed most other advanced capitalist countries since the mid-1980s Contributors to National Identity and the Varieties of Capitalism draw from the literature on capitalism and small states and corporatism to explore why this is the case. They find that Danish political and economic institutions facilitate bargaining and consensus building in ways that have enabled the state, businesses, and labour unions to adapt to the challenges of globalization. Moreover, by virtue of its small size, homogeneous population, and response to a variety of international challenges - both economic and geopolitical - Denmark has developed a strong national identity that further bolsters consensus building. The result has been an adaptable and flourishing national political economy.