In search of Norwegian Values

Norwegian class system

Quest for equality is distinctly Norwegian.

Norway is a country of houses and cottages but not castles.

This absence aristocratic upper class can be explained against the geographical background.

No class system due to farmers not being able to have large farms and in turn only made a reasonable living

Hans Neilsen Hauge- 1771-1824 preached to the masses uniting both the rich and the poor.

Values fitted into American and French revolutions of the time; liberty, equality and fraternity.

Working associations

Marcus Thrane- 1817-1890- organised 414 working associations(300,000 members) at a time of urban dissatisfaction.

This awakening of the layman, farmers and workers had a lasting influence on Norwegian values

The Welfare State (post 1945)

Promoted equality in Norway

Loans for housing young family's

Scholarships for students

“to fight the 5 main evils of society: poverty, Illness, Unemployment, Ignorance & Bad housing conditions”

Some argue that this suppresses the quest for freedom, i.e to do things your own way and reach you full potential.

Outdoor Activity

Sunday walks are a “pleasure and a duty”

The destination is not important, focus on the walk itself.

Outdoor Recreation Act-1957 gives public access to any land not cultivated

80% go cross country skiing or hiking.

Easter- 13-20% of total pop. Go skiinig in the mountains.

70-80% wish they could spend more time doing outdoor activities.

1970-190,000 holiday homes.

2005-375,000 holiday homes.

Kindergartens

Lack urban culture.

However 75% of pop. live in cities.

First naturbarnehager(Outdoor Kindergarten) late 1980’s.

100-200 today.

Children; Learn respect and enjoy nature.

Learn about plants and animals.

Learn to enjoy going on walks in the countryside.

Happy childhood is spent closely connected with the outdoors.

Usually parents with high income, high education and who like to spend time on outdoor activities.

Today

Not all Norwegians equality, moderation and nearness to nature as their values.

Increase of people who see themselves as mainly urban.