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The Law Of Jante

If you ever go to Norway and stay there for a while you will most probably hear about "Janteloven". In english that would be the principle of "just who do you think you are?" (The Law of Jante) Many talented Norwegians, especially from small remote places in Norway never reach far because there is an untold rule saying that you should not think you are better than others.

In fact here's the whole "Janteloven" (translated into english)

1. You shall not believe that you are somebody.
2. You shall not believe that you are as worthy as us.
3. You shall not believe that you are any wiser than us.
4. You shall not imagine that you are any better than us.
5. You shall not believe that you know anything more than us.
6. You shall not believe that you are more than us.
7. You shall not believe that you are good at anything.
8. You shall not laugh at us.
9. You shall not believe that anyone cares about you!
10. You shall not believe that you can teach us anything!

It's not such a big issue any longer, but it used to be and I still think it is at small remote places....

Are there any other countries having similar rules?

Edited: joheri on 31st May, 2006 - 5:54am

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Although it seems that it may be effective in taking away pride and yet it may also cause a great loss of self esteem. Do some folks see this as a 'religion' as it were and swear by it?

The Law Of Jante Reviews Consumer & Travel Family Culture

I just found out that I had forgotten to follow up on this one.

No, not like that. But I believe that it's a considerable part of the Norwegian culture. But, like I said, as the world is globalizing, it is affecting our culture less today...

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I would so love to go to Norway and get in on the culture there. Are people superstitious or more open minded and advanced?

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This seems to fit just right as the motto of an elitist group?