Cultural 'Jante Law' Emphasizes Unity and Harmony

Self-gratification, bragging, and egotism aren't terms commonly used to describe the Swedish people. The Law of Jante (pronounced yawn-tee), debuted in Aksel Sandemose's 20th century novel A Fugitive Crosses His Tracks, sets a pattern of group behaviors that de-emphasize individual success and achievement while emphasizing contributing to the common and collective good.

Jante Law was absent in my millennial upbringing, as it was for most of my demographic. Elementary school taught us to love being unique and individual, honing our differences. My high school's theme during my freshman year was "Rise Above Mediocrity." College, graduate school, and my years in the professional workforce have illustrated the necessity of being the shining number one. But that's American culture, Sweden is different. 

Law of Jante consists of ten principles:

1. You're not to think you are special;
2. You're not to think you are as good as we; 
3. You're not to think you are smarter than we;
4. You're not to convince yourself that you are better than we are;
5. You're not to think you know more than we know;
6. You're not to think you are more important than we are;
7. You're not to think you are good at anything;
8. You're not to laugh at us;
9. You're not to think anyone cares about you;
10. You're not to think you can teach us anything;

While some might argue that these commandments are harsh, they're often referred to as "Jante's Sheild," which protects the Swedish people. By focusing on the us and we, individuals are a part of something bigger than you and I. Community needs, peace and harmony, uniformity, and social stability are considered greater than individual concerns. 

Perhaps not the American way, but it's done Sweden well. They were ranked the fourth happiest country in 2013 by Forbes, and is first in entrepreneurship and opportunity (the United States ranked the 11th in happiness and 24th in economy).

What are your thoughts? Would you welcome Jante Law into your life?