The Danish Jantelov: Exploring the Impact of Humility and Community on Modern-Day Society
The Danish Jantelov, or Jante Law in English, is a cultural concept that originates from the fictional town of Jante in a novel written by the Danish-Norwegian author Aksel Sandemose in 1933. Sandemose used the town of Jante as a symbol of small-town life and the social pressures and expectations that come with it.
Jantelov is a set of unwritten rules and often unspoken rule, that dictate social and moral behaviours in Scandinavian societies, emphasizing humility, equality, and social cohesion. The Jantelov comprises of ten basic principles, including the following:
You are not better than anyone else.
You should not think you are better than anyone else.
You should not think you are smarter than anyone else.
You should not think you are more important than anyone else.
You should not think you are always right.
You should not laugh at anyone else.
You should not think anyone else cares about you.
You should not think you can teach anyone anything.
You should not think there is anything special about you.
You should not think anyone else can tell you what to do.
The Jantelov is important in our society because it reflects the Scandinavian cultural values of social equality, cooperation, and respect for the collective. It discourages individuals from seeking individual glory or standing out from the crowd, instead emphasizing the importance of fitting in and being part of the group. The Jantelov encourages humility and self-deprecation, which can make it difficult for individuals to express their individuality, creativity and personal ambitions. However, it can also foster a sense of community and social cohesion which is highly valued in Scandinavian societies.
The Jantelov has evolved and adapted to modern-day society in Denmark. While some aspects of the Jantelov continue to influence Danish culture, other aspects have been challenged or rejected over time.
One significant change is the increasing emphasis on individualism in Danish society. As Denmark has become more prosperous and connected to the rest of the world, many Danes have embraced the idea of pursuing their own goals and ambitions, rather than conforming to the expectations of the community.
At the same time, there is still a strong sense of community and social responsibility in Denmark, which is reflected in policies such as the country's welfare state and high levels of trust in public institutions. Additionally, the Jantelov has faced criticism in recent years for contributing to a culture of mediocrity and discouraging people from pursuing excellence. This has led some Danes to reject the Jantelov altogether and advocate for a more individualistic and achievement-oriented culture.
Overall, the Jantelov has undergone significant changes in modern-day Danish society, reflecting the country's evolving values and priorities. While some aspects of the Jantelov remain relevant and valued, others have been challenged and reinterpreted considering new social and economic realities.
Alison, OLS Community Manager - Danish