Adult education in Sweden is closely interrelated with the prevailing ideology in that society. The predominant ideology in Sweden consists of firm and active commitment to lifelong learning, achieving the 'learned society', socioeconomic and political democracy, full employment, individual growth and dignity, and overall egalitarianism. Welfare, which includes the provision of lifelong education for all, is the ideological foundation of the Swedish sociocultural system. The relatively small, homogeneous, affluent, and value-consistent Swedish society makes the realization of such social principles a reality. About 18% of the national budget is allocated to education; 10% of that is earmarked for adult education. More than half of Swedish adults are engaged in some form of adult education program. These programs may be (1) Study Circles offered by voluntary educational associations, (2) municipal and state-run schools for adults, (3) Folk High Schools (or people's colleges, imparting general civic knowledge), (4) labor market training, (5) on-the-job training offered by national and local governments and private companies in collaboration with their employees, (6) training programs of the trade union confederations, and (7) courses offered on radio, television, and through correspondence schools. (Author/SH)