The volume offers a didactically prepared introduction to the political systems of the Nordic countries, covering the three dimensions of Polity, Politics, and Policy. It addresses the cornerstones of the Nordic model, often regarded as a role model in international discussions, ranging from the welfare state to education policy and the special role of social democracy and trade unions. Numerous excursions into country-specific topics, such as the understanding of the state in Nordic crime fiction, complete the book. Three suggested readings and a catalog of practice questions at the end of each chapter provide food for thought and assist with learning assessment.