Hello Everyone!
We have a new blog post to share with you about what we called Jantelov. Basically the Jantelov is a social concept that originated in Denmark and Norway, and it refers to a set of unwritten rules that emphasise the importance of humility, modesty, and equality. These rules dictate that individuals should not think too highly of themselves and should not try to stand out from the crowd. Instead, people are expected to conform to social norms and not draw attention to themselves.
The Jantelov has been criticized for discouraging individuality and creativity and for creating a culture of conformity. However, it is also seen as a way to promote social harmony and discourage arrogance and selfishness.
Here are some examples of how the Jantelov plays out in Danish society:
Equality in Education: Denmark has a strong tradition of providing free education to all citizens, regardless of their social status or background. This reflects the Jantelov's emphasis on equality and the belief that everyone should have access to the same opportunities.
Avoiding Bragging: Danes are generally reluctant to brag about their achievements or success, as this would violate the Jantelov's emphasis on humility. Instead, they tend to downplay their accomplishments and avoid drawing attention to themselves.
Teamwork and Collaboration: The Jantelov emphasizes the importance of the collective over the individual, and this is reflected in Danish society's emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Danish workplaces often encourage employees to work together to achieve common goals, rather than promoting individual competition.
Social Welfare: Denmark has a strong social welfare system, which provides a safety net for those in need. This reflects the Jantelov's emphasis on community and the belief that people should look out for one another, rather than just focusing on their own interests.
Overall, the Jantelov's emphasis on humility, modesty, and community is deeply ingrained in Danish society and influences everything from the way people interact with each other to the way they approach work and education.
I am curious to know what you think are the pros and cons to this social concept and how it might impact individual and collective behaviours. Please feel free to share in the group, and let's start a discussion!Alison, OLS Danish Community Manager