Comparing folk high schools in the United States and Scandinavia, this study investigated the philosophical and historical development of the movement, the relationship of folk high schools to other institutions in each nation studied, and conditions which have contributed to successful implementation of the idea. Data came from a literature survey on N.S.F. Grundtvig's educational thought and other facets of the movement as well as from the author's participation in programs in Norway and Denmark. These were among the conclusions: (1) movements in Scandinavian countries, but not in the United States, have prospered and remain significant adult education institutions; (2) the movement has been, and remains, quite flexible and the idea has been adapted to the needs of each nation; (3) the Scandinavian movements were closely associated with nationalism and the revival of culture in rural areas, but reflected the convergence of several factors rather than being a response to a single situation; (4) establishment of a basic system of elementary education favored the success of Scandinavian folk schools. (LY)