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Philosophy of humility -

Jantelagen is a social norm rooted in Scandinavian culture, emphasizing humility and discouraging individual boasting or thinking oneself better than others.

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Origin in literature -

Coined by Danish-Norwegian author Aksel Sandemose in his 1933 novel 'A Fugitive Crosses His Tracks,' Jantelagen outlined a fictional town's rules discouraging pride and self-importance.

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Anti-egoism -

Jantelagen encourages people to avoid excessive self-focus or drawing attention to personal achievements. It discourages egoism to maintain harmony and equality in communities.

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Collective identity -

The concept supports a shared identity over individualism, with collective well-being prioritized. Individuals contribute to society without seeking to stand out as exceptional.

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Rules of Jante -

The original Jantelagen comprises 10 "laws," each centered around humility, modesty, and discouraging individuals from thinking they are special, unique, or more valuable than others.

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Unspoken social code -

While Jantelagen isn't legally enforced, it's an unspoken social code in many Scandinavian communities.

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Influence in Scandinavian countries -

Common in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, Jantelagen is seen in attitudes that favor modesty and discourage overt self-promotion, shaping much of Scandinavia's social fabric.

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Critique of individualism -

Jantelagen critiques extreme individualism, viewing it as disruptive to social harmony. It reflects a societal preference for the collective over personal gain.

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Envy avoidance -

Jantelagen helps reduce jealousy among peers, as personal success isn't flaunted. It fosters a sense of fairness and minimizes envy-driven conflict within communities.

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"Don't think you're better" -

One of Jantelagen's core messages is "Don't think you're better than us," emphasizing an egalitarian mindset where everyone holds equal social value.

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Limits on ambition -

While not against ambition, Jantelagen discourages open ambition if it suggests superiority. Individuals may strive for success quietly, without drawing public attention.

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Cultural restraint -

In Scandinavian culture, personal achievements are downplayed. Celebrating oneself is frowned upon, as it's seen as unnecessary and potentially alienating to the community.

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Business culture -

Jantelagen influences business culture in Scandinavia, where humility and collaboration are prized over cutthroat competition. Leaders often adopt low-profile, egalitarian approaches.

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Social equality -

Jantelagen promotes a sense of equality across socio-economic classes, encouraging the view that everyone has equal worth.

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Downplaying wealth -

Accumulating wealth isn't viewed negatively, but flaunting it is. Many Scandinavians avoid showing off possessions, preferring a more understated lifestyle.

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Media reflections -

Jantelagen influences Scandinavian media, with TV shows and news avoiding sensationalism. Public figures often appear more modest, and refrain from excessive self-promotion.

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Education influence -

In schools, achievements are recognized without over-celebration. Group projects are encouraged, promoting teamwork over individual competition.

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Workplace dynamics -

Scandinavian workplaces influenced by Jantelagen prioritize cooperation, where individual praise is often shared with teams and hierarchical structures are kept minimal.

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Criticism of Jantelagen -

Some criticize Jantelagen for stifling creativity and discouraging exceptional talent. Critics argue it can inhibit people's potential by discouraging self-confidence.

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Seen as protective -

Supporters see Jantelagen as protective, preventing feelings of inadequacy in those who may not achieve as much.

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Impact on celebrities -

Public figures in Scandinavian countries are expected to be modest, avoiding displays of luxury or vanity. During a 2018 appearance on 'The Late Show,' Swedish actor Alexander Skarsgård explained that Jantelagen inhibited him from boasting about his Emmy and Golden Globe wins.

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Gender equality -

Jantelagen contributes to gender equality in Scandinavian countries by minimizing displays of power or dominance, fostering an environment where men and women are viewed equally.

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Modesty in lifestyle -

Many Scandinavians embrace a minimalist lifestyle, consistent with Jantelagen values, preferring practicality to excess, and often focusing on functionality over style.

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Contrast with American individualism -

Jantelagen contrasts sharply with American ideals of self-promotion and individual success, reflecting Scandinavian skepticism toward the "self-made" mentality.

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Pressure to socially conform -

Critics argue Jantelagen can create pressure to conform, limiting personal expression or ambition to avoid standing out, which can feel restrictive to some individuals.

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Public opinion -

Jantelagen impacts public opinion, as people may be critical of those who overtly flaunt success or status. This can be seen as arrogance rather than admirable accomplishment.

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Connection to "lagom" -

Jantelagen aligns with the Swedish concept of lagom, meaning "just the right amount." Both values prioritize balance, moderation, and contentment over extremes.

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Encourages privacy -

Scandinavian people may avoid discussing personal achievements or finances in public, valuing privacy and discretion.

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Generational shift -

While younger generations challenge Jantelagen, many still follow its principles. Its influence persists, though it's often reinterpreted to fit modern lifestyles shaped by social media and globalization.

Sources: (BBC) (Sweden Herald) (Business Insider) 

See also: How similar are the Nordic countries?

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