STRONG OR WEAK STATE - THE CASE OF DANISH AGRICULTURAL EXPORT POLICY, 1849-1906

A recent "new statist" interpretation of the development of the Danish state in the second half of the nineteenth century is discussed, and its conclusion-that a state elite was instrumental in setting up a state agricultural export strategy-is held questionable. Evidence is presented to suggest a conclusion to the contrary, that most export initiatives were started and implemented by farmers themselves in local and later national organizations based on a strong movement to strengthen civil society. If the state was involved, it was in order to support already existing activities. Hence the strong division between state and society is hardly tenable in this case. It is suggested that in empirical research statist researchers should take time and policy field into consideration rather than seek strong generalizations about the role of the state.