Conclusions

doi:10.1017/9781009614290.019

16 - Conclusions

Lessons from Practical Social Democracy

from Part III - Rhetoric, Language, and Ideology

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 February 2026

Jonas Hinnfors and

Edited by

Jonas Hinnfors and

Magnus Feldmann: Affiliation:
University of Bristol
Jonas Hinnfors: Affiliation:
Göteborgs Universitet, Sweden
Mark Wickham-Jones: Affiliation:
University of Bristol

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Summary

This concluding chapter discusses the main contributions of the volume, notably the implications of adopting a practical approach to social democracy. It also considers the key analytical lessons from the chapters for understanding the evolution of reformist politics, policy-making as well as the role rhetoric, language, and ideology. It also reflects on the wider implications of this agenda by examining its relevance to other parts of the world, such as Latin America (Brazil) and East Central Europe (Poland), and other policy areas, notably immigration. The analysis implies that the core logic of practical social democracy could be applicable across a wide range of countries and policy areas, but it also highlights that the specific nature of the feasible trade-offs between governance, electoral, and organisational imperatives vary across such settings and over time, thereby contributing to the diversity of reformist parties and policies.

Keywords

practical social democracy Latin America East Central Europe Brazil Poland immigration policy

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Type: Chapter
Information: Practical Social Democracy , pp. 369 - 399

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009614290.019 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2026

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