Why Norwegians Are So Happy

Random strangers on the streets of Trondheim, Norway, tell us why they think Norwegian's are so happy. First line is their spoken dialect, second line is the equivalent in Bokmål.
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00:00 Intro
00:22 Why do you think Norwegians are considered to be so happy?
03:49 Is there a part of the culture that has to do with it?
06:34 Do the politics have anything to do with it?
08:22 Where’s your dialect from?
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[@peachfreude]

I guess because people there have their human rights respected. They dont have to worry about healthcare fees, maternity/paternity leave, living wage, and their government mostly makes good policies.

[@annehalonen9451]

@@budisoemantri2303 In Finland we lack oil - and besides we also share a traumatic memory of an extremely destructive war against an enormous enemy, and still... This country leads statistics of happiness. So 'happiness' isn't a very simple thing!

[@hwplugburz]

@@budisoemantri2303 the oil, and gas helps ofc, but we also have a well oiled democracy and a highly educated population. Our democracy-roots here that are as deep as Greeks atlest. The roots of bouth Magna Carta and "Norman law" are much older then the vikings. You dont see that in any other oilrich contry.

[@stevo728822]

Oil and gas pays their bills.

[@annehalonen9451]

@NKP 1945 Thank you :) Perhaps you can feel more happiness if it's not self evident for you... if you (or your parents and grandparents) have had to pay a high price for your welfare.

[@andreeailie9053]

Well said...so true , not to montion life there is less stresfull and they take time for themselfs. They do not need to sacrifice so much in order to have a decent level of life

[@SimpleNorwegian]

I think Norway is considered to be one of the happiest countries because it feels extremely safe, there isn't too big of a gap between the rich and "poor", the nature is beautiful, the people are, at least in a communal sense, friendly and helpful, and many of the factors mentioned in this video. Enjoy!

[@pirangeloferretti3588]

Well your parents grandparents, great grand parents and so on must have done a good job creating the economics, cultural values and social customs that helped making you a happy people and apparently you are still doing a good job with that (luck has a minimal role here). Respect to the Norwegians and keep up the good work.

[@giuliom3564]

@Randolph Vikingsund Yes, but the non-white people obviously are not ethnic Norwegians. They can be Norwegian only as nationality or citizenship.

[@flu-fiorde4324]

Some researchs point happiness rankings to be connected to living in a country where "things work", in the broader sense of the expression. So, we would expect judicial system and access to that, access to education, to welfare, to health services etc. The idea is less effort to have things that actually make life easier, more just and dignified. Therefore, you will see, for example, "happy" Scandinavians and will not see Brazil (the land of samba and partying some 2 months a year and great weather etc) not well ranked at all.

[@flu-fiorde4324]

@@monkwithgrillz1921 not at all if you consider my argument below.

[@flu-fiorde4324]

@@pirangeloferretti3588, while they are doing a good job, it is due to way too many factors that go waaaay beyond "good work". The human side of geography as a field of knowledge has this explained perfectly and beyond doubdt.

[@stargategoku]

I'm from UK and I worked in Norway for more than a year as IT consultant on one of the big IT company and unfortunately our contract was terminated. I prefer to work in Norway because they have this "egality" principle, it means everyone is equal for example in our company, there's no allocated room for vice-president or director, every desk is open for all. style of work environment is also good for example management won't ask you everytime what are you doing but you must deliver the project based on agreed date. Also Norway is on the top 5 transparent countries, it means corruption is very low to compare to other countries that's why they have better health service and support from the government. Just look Venezuela, Russia or Saudi, people in Venezuela are protesting because their gov't is corrupt.

[@rioichislayer]

hi rb do you think i can find a good work if i move there with just english and an high school diploma in it? I also have experience and certificate in java, front end and salesforce. thx

[@PennyJackson123]

Happy?? I am Norwegian and I just hear Norwegians complain and forget how lucky we are. They don’t even realize what they have as being privileged compared to the rest of the world. We have many opportunities and we live comfortably here, but we also take it for granted because we know of nothing worse

[@maskarasoares6477]

According to this observation made by You, then Norwegians are too introspective and alienated people, and end up having these faults in perception because they do not seek to know the reality of the World in a broader and more general perspective. I hear over and over again that Norwegians are closed, shy, have difficulty to socializing with other peoples and cultures ... If so, then it is a regrettable stance they have towards other peoples - a kind of 'psychological and social separatism'

[@PennyJackson123]

maskara soares well, the thing is, Norwegians do not really have to. We grow up with a very Scandinavian focused mindset. If we think outside of Scandinavia, then the majority of Norwegians will think about expensive vacations in an exotic country or their beautiful beach house in South Africa, or their winter cabin in Switzerland (or usually somewhere in Norway), rather than the reality of the living conditions for the average joe in those less fortunate countries. So yes you are right. It is a shame really. We are very much focused on the celebrity culture in America, but beyond that, nothing that goes underneath our standards. It is “too unsettling” to look at, and there is also no need to look at it. I really do not like how behind we still are in terms of being more inclusive of others. The world is so big, and consists of more than just Scandinavia, Western Europe “well off countries” and of course the luxurious 1% of America that is being displayed in reality shows, Instagram stories, and music videos. And I say this from personal experience. When I met my current partner more than 2 years ago who happens to be Serbian, I had absolutely no idea about the every day life of someone who lives there. And I was on skype with some Serbians and a Norwegian friend of mine early this year, and that Norwegian friend was complaining so much about Norway, and how little money he gets from the government for being unable to work right now. What was it? 2000 euros per month he would get. How awful. I felt ashamed. He was also vacating at his summer house in Turkey, and going to the mall on a daily basis just showering himself with useless shopping. I felt ashamed.. I could tell that their minds were blown, but they were too polite to say anything. No one gets any help like that in most countries, and here we are taking our resources and high standards for granted to the point of not even realizing how lucky we are. We are extremely lucky, and we need to recognize that and appreciate it, and also show more compassion and genuine interest in the real world. Social media is painting a very distorted view on what the real world actually looks like. The real world is not the instagram stories made by celebrities, and everyone else who wants to look like one. The real world is pretty harsh. It is tough out there. We should start to acknowledge that. But I guess, there is no need to.

[@maskarasoares6477]

@@PennyJackson123 I noticed people from Norway like to express very detailed about things - a nice and fun surprise for me. Your comment is like that and personally I appreciate it a lot. I will think a little bit more about your thoughts and will reply to you afterwards.

[@PennyJackson123]

maskara soares I have Aspergers. It is part of my condition.

[@Maksym_Ch]

@@PennyJackson123 Jesus , 2000 euros for not working. Here in the eastern part of Europe you'll be glad you are not fired (I am from Ukraine). Many people outside big cities keep working even if they are sick , because they need those 350 dollars a month they make in avarage for basic expanses. In the post-soviet countries (Russia , Belarus ,Ukraine) many people can afford a vacation abroad only once in maybe 5 years and some may only be abroad once in their lives (as my grandfather). Of course there are loads "rich" people here too. From here we see norwegians as millionaires living in the best country ever. I am glad there are people who have created such a piece of heaven here on the Earth , I only hope it will fall into ruin. I wish you good luck !

[@media3948]

Norwegians apparently use less mobile phones, their population density is well regulated, pollution levels are low, job stress is very low especially compared to Japan/China etc.

[@risa5126]

It's weird to see people being happy with their government in 2020! They are indeed very lucky...

[@nevereverstopsinging]

Fr 😔 america is the fucking ghetto lmaoo

[@Fabelfjes]

Ehh. We are also the most sick ppl in the world. Most naiv and most happypills, and when Natiolnal Geographic should talk about Herion i Europa. They did go to Oslo. The Heroincapital of Europa The gov fits the nuber to to the Un-charter. They lie

[@mrsixxthsense5123]

@@Fabelfjes Correct. The explanation of this is easy - the freemason mafia gang originates from Norway. These are the traitors that makes an illusion of caring for other people when they actually are causing them harm. When it will be disclosed the freemason burned 6 million Norwegians alive in the concentration camps - we will see justice being served, as there is nowhere for the traitor freemasons to hide. No corruption in Norway. Right... Wonder how this channel picks people to interview as there is no one there with any understanding on how the system works here. They should contact me if they want the real information about what is going on in my country

[@chrislfc2317]

Top 7 countries are all in Europe and it consists of all thr nordic countries, tells a lot

[@josephozturk3288]

Well their government does nothing but raise taxes

[@aquajuwel7098]

Religion don’t control our life in any way, I think that’s one of the reasons why we are happy.......we are free....

[@hhefner9659]

that's funny because it's generally known that people who are religious are happier.

[@hhefner9659]

@Nas Kane search "Are religious people happier, healthier? Pew Research Center"

[@BlueBerry-my2ey]

@@hhefner9659 haha lol

[@JAMamation]

Let’s put it like this, I’m from the UK and have a friend in Kristiansand. He took me around the ‘hood/ bad end’ of his city, but I thought the area still looked really nice. Big detached houses, albeit where the front lawns weren’t cut as well as the other areas of the city. Norway’s idea of a ‘bad neighbourhood’ can be seen as a good/ ok neighbourhood in many other countries. Norwegians don’t realise quite how good they’ve got it with their standard of living!

[@poly.po3t]

Norwegians are lucky to have a clean and transparent government and public services with no corruption. I wish my country, India adapts such policies with no corruption some day. I envy you Norway!

[@gullfeber]

@Randolph among the 6 countries with the least corruption in the world

[@tammyblack2747]

I don't know why they are, but it sure as hell ain't the weather, to hear my Norwegian fb friends in their videos!

[@lpdude2005]

But we have money to take a trip abroad - one or two times a year - no problem.

[@SRBOMBONICA86]

@@lpdude2005 everyone travels once or twice a year outside of their country ,that's normal for us Serbs and we are much more poor

[@lpdude2005]

@@SRBOMBONICA86 Hehe. Yes, I understand that. I was in Serbia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Greece, Romania, Albania, Germany, Switzerland in 2019. I'm not talking about Europe. It is winter in Norway and the summer is not always 100% so we travel to Thailand, Indonesia, (many countries in Asia) Bora Bora, USA, Australia because we want warm weather. Also to Canary Island and Morocco. My neighbor here in Norway is actually from Serbia - I talk to her every day.

[@malesal5452]

​@@SRBOMBONICA86 everyone? I guess you're talking about just Europeans, right? it isn't normal for the rest of the world, at all, except if you're rich

[@bulentarif6527]

Lucky bastards

[@tylerduke7657]

Guys it’s obvious, Odin watches over them

[@user-ps5bo5ph1n]

😂😂

[@Nico97fr]

As a french working in luxembourg and is planning to move to norway soon, I have an idea of why they are so happy. Norway is not a perfect country (no country is perfect), but it has a lot of advantages contributing to happiness: -little to no insecurity -one of the best education system in the world where kids learn a lot of things, can choose what they like and are well advised. -a lot of outdoor activities, in nature, in beautiful landscapes + allemannsrett -another way of thinking (janteloven), where people don't bring about themselves and don't try to enter in competition with others for a job, a promotion, etc... -less working hours: when the rest of the world wake up at 7 am and come back home at 8 pm, norwegians generally wake up at 7 am and come back home around 3 pm -less jobs under pressure: as having a hard time at work to show everyone you're the best in other western societies is not how norway works. People take their time, don't work more than their colleagues, and as no one wants to take the lead and to be seen as superior to others, "bosses" talk to each other before taking any decision, and don't treat employees like their slaves. -little to no unemployment -a good healthcare system -this country has no debt -no corruption among politics, with politicians crossing the streets like normal citizens -almost no pollution: 100% of norway's electrical power is produced by renewable and clean energy. And as cars are expensive, there are less of them: more space, less air pollution. -5M inhabitants: with such a low amount of inhabitants, you don't feel uneasy in dense cities, and roads probably tend to be less busy than in other countries. -this country is conservative and patriot: people aren't ashamed of what they are, of their flag, and feel like they belong to the national community. The feeling of belonging is a crucial point to happiness, at it's essential to the human psychology. I would say the disadvantage of living in norway is the high prices / taxes. This is crazy to pay so much taxes, but at least, it looks like their government uses this money in a good way, and don't steal it to build their personal fortune.

[@simplyclem]

as a Turkish, .. Okay I dont wanna talk

[@sdn1611]

Today my co-worker complained about getting taxed so much, and I told him he should be happy about it. He didn't really understand at first, but when I told him that the taxes of other Norwegians helped him with free language courses, free education, free healthcare, help with his dental needs, housing, child-care, getting his job through NAV, etc. he could understand why it is necessary. Putting it all in this perspective made him aware of the usefulness of taxes, and he was thankful to be able to do it for others.

[@simplyclem]

@Safiya Hesham poor living conditions, rich-poor distinction.. Turkey is a beautiful country for the rich and tourists

[@LA90598]

You will moan constantly about the weather as French people do

[@sdn1611]

Yes, I am Norwgian :) I know some very wealthy Norwegians very well, and they don't seem to feel entitled earning 10x the amount of their fellow countrymen. You can even check what everyone earns the previous year, It's all public. But to keep it "short": They have safety nets, they can take huge risks with investments and easily become set for life if they bother to do so, most people are just okay with what they have. They also reap the benefits from taxes. Most Norwegians like paying them, even some the very rich. If you don't like paying for the high taxes you vote in the next election for a political party which tries to lower them. Everyone is just so well of and live comfortably that lowering taxes are more of like a frowned upon issue here in Norway. It's of course understandable that the rich want to manage more of their money, and they feel like they can make more of it by keeping it to themselves. I am sure this is true, but also kind of egoistic if you intend to spend them on your personal needs. I think the the government manages the money well, we own the funds of like 1.5% off all global listed companies, several properties all over the world etc. Our streets are clean, we develop quickly as a nation and so on. Here are some key links to understand Norwegian society, mentality, culture, etc.: www.nbim.no/en/ (Norway's oil fund) www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20180521-how-dugnad-shaped-a-nations-work-ethic (Why we like paying taxes I guess) kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2q4npePZaprnrc&ab_channel=TEDxTalks (Interesting presentation on why it's so easy to get rich in Norway)

[@andydidyouhear]

Great video! Keep up the good work:)

[@ivanivan5511]

You're doing a great job, it's helping me a lot! I'm already subscribed, thanks heaps!

[@SimpleNorwegian]

Awesome, thank you!

[@AZNboi10921]

This might be hard, but you should consider doing a video asking foreigners in Norway! I plan on visiting in the next year to see how it will be to actually move there for a permanent home and so it'd be interesting to see foreigners' perspectives about adjusting to life in Norway.

[@gohan9080]

That would be quite interesting, indeed!

[@SimpleNorwegian]

I will try to make this 😀

[@AZNboi10921]

@@SimpleNorwegian Appreciate you and your channel :)

[@connorgioiafigliu]

I love these videos! Keep up the good work!

[@brendavasquez]

I love the nature and beautiful landscapes in Norway 💖 and Norwegians have such a nice sense of humor!

[@mpaterson]

Tusen takk for the videos! I’ve been considering moving to Norway, and I’ve gotten a really good idea so far of what the country is like, and it’s language.

[@marijose4471]

Because they have smart people to lead the country

[@anithadola9732]

Thank you so much for making these videos..because of your videos its becoming easy to learn norwegian..please post more videos on stavanger also , it would be more helpful for me.

[@nadya1715]

I’d love to live there or at least get to visit your country! Keep on with these kind of videos, they’re good and they help a lot to learn the language! Greetings from argentina!

[@leandrox1]

nadia hola Nadia...saludos desde Caseros...( menos mal q apareciste... Asi me haces recordar q no solo las noruegas son lindas...😉)...

[@katiestegman8083]

I finally understand it after watching this video - people are happy when they feel equal to everyone else in their community. I've heard about the politics and the welfare and social services, but it never came together until listening to these people. When you all have the same opportunities and you have safety nets in place if things go wrong, you can feel safe and comfortable in the knowledge that everyone is your equal. That must feel wonderful. Great video.

[@doctorfromHK]

thank you for making these videos. could you make one about work culture in norway? thank you

[@SimpleNorwegian]

That’s an interesting topic, I’ll consider it :) thanks

[@SimpleNorwegian]

Could you tell me what kinds of things you would like to hear about the work culture?

[@sherriffs2554]

@@SimpleNorwegian I hear interviews are different in Norway. Maybe typical work day/hours. Is it ok to go on vacation? Maybe typical salaries. Ooh maybe top professions or what are the most aspired professions.

[@dhruvithestar4080]

@@sherriffs2554 yeahh

[@user-tv7yf9lo1w]

I was waiting for this video Now I can learn new words tusen takk))

[@user-zq8jk7qw2w]

круто

[@mandalorian1994]

I'm just gonna say this, that girl at 2:13 is absolutely gorgeous ❤

[@LittleSparrow.]

I'm from England wished living in there exactly Bergen city xx

[@dannymercia9524]

Jeg elsker Norge så mye! Annet fint video! Tusen takk! Er du snill laget mer!

[@andy197911]

Bello video muchas gracias saludos desde Chile takk

[@yuricesar6126]

I love these videos.

[@ArcticExploring]

We stick together, in good and bad!

[@briandavis849]

lived there, didn’t see that

[@x98334]

We have trolls, that's the only reason why we are happy.

[@fernandar557]

I love trolls :)

[@DameofShalott]

I need to meet some :)

[@hwplugburz]

😂😂😂

[@SpettroFamily]

hahaha

[@christopherortile8452]

Jeg håper å flytte ut til Norge dessa år.Et så vakkert land!!

[@m2coy]

summary: norweigans have no idea why they are so happy.

[@EUROSPORTS4TECH]

Same

[@gienco1717]

Lmaoo

[@Bloooooooooopp]

hahahaha

[@felixmikkialmosttoasted3911]

Wealthy population with not alot of people. Rich in oil.

[@briandavis849]

myth that people in norway joke about

[@Dan-vz7xu]

The irony is all the countries listed at the beginning, except Switzerland, have the height per capita depressant prescription in the world.

[@HenrikWigum]

Because those of us who do struggle with depression here in the Scandinavian countries have a strong safety net and good healthcare infrastructure to get the treatment we need. And inexpensively at that. If the US and other countries around the world had the same infrastructure in regards to mental health as we do, I'm pretty sure a lot more people would benefit from anti-depressants as well. The world has changed very rapidly in perspective of evolution, and this life of "nine to five" isn't something that comes naturally to humans, it's not how we've evolved to live. The fact that some of us feel it all being a bit monotonous is completely natural, and we have the means to remedy it. And that's some of us, not most of us! I see how that would come off as a negative thing statistically, but it's just really not

[@Dan-vz7xu]

That is not true. Antidepressants are very cheap in the U.S. actually. There are drugs here that are too expensive, like insulin, but you’ll only pay $10 on average to fill antidepressants.

[@marselshtylla]

@@HenrikWigum YOU ARE TOTALLY WRONG. YOU AND THESE WHO LIKED YOUR COMMENT. Let me brake this down hopefully is going to be read by someone. First the reason why you take anti depressants is not because of the ability to do so and other countries cant but rather that you have no motive to not be so here is the thing when life is to good and you didn't have to work for it then the brain tries to find a struggle to push itself . It's totally the opposite we are build not for 9 to 5 but rather 9 to 9 and more we i live in a poor country my wage is 306 euros total my rent costs 150 internet costs 10 eating costs 150 average per person i eat less and save 50 and with the rest of the money i pay for detergents toothpaste shampoo and other basic needs i am struggling and have seen people struggling even worse and yet no depression problems it's allways the rich jere that have that mental illness how about you come to my country and struggle for a month and lets test if your depression is still there come and try to survive with that amount of money and i will come to your country and look how many things i can build with all your countries opportunities this is why you need immigrants we have build the world and we will never give Up we struggle to have nothing more than food in our mouths i think most people are pathetic and they only complain the world is suffering europe is a minority to the planet dont forget europe has 700mil 350 mil for usa and 120mil for japan in total all the rich countries hold no more than 1.1 to 1.3 bilion still there are 6.4 other bilion people struggling to get by 1 out of 7 is not successful it's just lucky with my current mental state i know when i come to an rich eu country i will fucking work till i am sure no family or relatives or close friends have to count their total money in their wallets every day to check how much they have left till their payday like i am doing right now as i speak where is the internet for me where is people trying to do stuff like go fund me they do that for people who are disabled in rich countries or go through bad experiences in rich countries i will take anyday the sacrifice of one of my limbs (losing my arm my kidney)for opportunity to be able to work in a rich country i dont want free stuff i want opportunities to work even if i already have health problems . I have pulmonary embolism lupus systemic erythmatous and thrombocytopenia and yet i work 10 hours every day and i am working and no depression in sight all i have is anger that pushes me to go on. enough already admit that you all are pathetic it's rare that one of you commenting here has experienced struggle you are just weak human being nothing wrong but understand that not everyone will go through depression since WE DONT HAVE TIME FOR THAT

[@ahmedalshalchi]

Norwegians and others like are happy because no others around to piss them off and they don't intend to intrude others so they are happy :) ...

[@stitch6502]

I wish I could live there or in Sweden. But I’m afraid of getting some comments about me being a stranger in there country (I am French). I dont if I will be accepted. Here in France, there is a lot of racism towards “stranger” people. Such a sadness

[@SimpleNorwegian]

My impression is that people are not so racist in Norway, I wouldn’t be worried about it

[@stitch6502]

Simple Norwegian Thank you, really nice to take the time to respond. I have been in many countries like Poland, Germany, Belgium etc, all were pretty nasty towards people who look like stranger even if they were born in the country 🤔 I really don’t get why there’s people so racist. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@IsaGirlGamer]

Does anybody know if the Swedes are racist? I would like to travel to Sweden next year and I'm latino, so I may be discouraged to know Swedes are racist against non caucasian people

[@matcab6603]

IsaGirlGamer you do not have to worry at all! Swedes are great people! :-)

[@e30clew]

Pease do come to Sweden! I think you will find more people from different cultures here than you may think. Sweden has more immigrants and is more multinethnic than Norway for example which is more homogeneous. Otherwise I think Sweden is pretty similar to Norway, Norway has better paying Jobs but higher cost of living, but as long as the difference between poor and rich isnt too big I dont care Much about that. We share many Values with eachother. I dont find it racist, to be accused of being racist is something you avoid in sweden. Almost to the degree that people slmost dont dare to feel proud of their country in fear of that someone may view it as racist. Im swedish, my mothers side of the family are from Finland but I prefer Norway and Denmark! Norway as a whole country, Denmark most because of Copenhagen which is the best city in scandinavia IMO! French people are very welcome as well! French culture and language are seen as something beautiful and sophisticated here. I cant think of anything negative other than that you eat snails 😄

[@theandreas9262]

They have wonderful nature, good straight character combine by good oil money, then it leads to good political decision then as you can hear from the video, it produce good education, welfare and etc. I have been living here for 2 years, if only they have more sun and open/sharing personality it will be a 'perfect country' :) but yeah, nobody perfect. I like what one of old man saying in the video, Norwegian were born with privillage, I think they need more grateful for that and share it each others so then their problems like some mention in the comment about suicide, loneliness and depression can be reduced a lot in society. Just my 2 cents :)

[@Lovecars1218]

In my opinion what is making the Norwegians happy are many reasons: - their relaxed mentality (slapp av/tar det rulig) - the fact that Norway is very rich due to their richness in oil an other resources - the government cares about the people, investing the taxes and the money in general in the future of the people - the gender equality in every aspect - the paygap between normal and better educated people is not as high as for example in germany. You can actually afford a decent lifestyle with a pretty normal job without having a degree or a Phd - Norway does have a good political landscape, you have nearly no corruption and the politicians are very much „down to earth“ actually caring about their fellow people - the hirarchys in jobs and in the Social community in General are very flat. The CEO sits down with you in the canteen/cafeteria and talks with you about everything. Your position doesen‘t matter, you are all just humans. showing off your money is also very disreputable in norway. It’s fine to have money in Norway and no one will envy you about it, but you just don’t show it. - the care system for children is very good. You have no problems to find a place for your child in kindergarten/barnehage - the Health care is also very good as it is in general in Scandinavia and middle European country’s - the beautifully nature. Norwegians live in accordance with nature. The „Ute livet“ is a thing of freedom wich is very important for nearly every norwegian. - Family is very important for most Norwegians. You don’t have any problems to find a good balance between work and family and a good work life balance in general.

[@Lovecars1218]

Lola Montez that’s just not right. According to statista.com Norway has a an amount of migrants (non Norwegian citizens) of 11% in 2019, wich is nearly the same germans has with 12% in 2019. Norway was one of the first country’s in Europe to help refugees by giving them asylum (especially people from Somalia) 20 years ago. It was even a thing when my parents lived there in the 80s and 90s.

[@agustinamansur5665]

I'm no jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous, I'm not jealous 😢😭😂

[@plung3r]

I think the question should be "Why Norwegians live a comfortable life ?" Comfortable life is not the same as a happy life. Of course a comfortable life contributes to a happy life. A rich person can have many things, a big house, a beautiful spouse, a fancy car etc... but that does not guarantee happiness. Happiness comes from within, it's the mindset that decides whether you are happy or not. I'm not sure how happiness can be measured, maybe suicide rates can tell us something. There are many poor countries with bad public services and bad welfare systems and a lot of corruption but have the least suicide rates. We were always told that the people who live a simple life in small villages live a happier life. I think there is some truth in that, specially at this age and time that we are living. The internet age has brought a big change in our social lives. Take for example Instagram, as an average instagram user you will follow celebrities, friends, models. You will look the posts of the "wonderful" materials that the celebrity has and the fancy life he/she lives and then we start to compare our own life with the life of the celebrity, which is actually a fake life. Most of of your friends on instagram will only post the highlights(holidays, restaurants, fun activities) of his/her life, making you feel that your life is boring and your friends are enjoying their lives, which is just a small part of their life, I mean they won't post their parents arguing or a divorce in a family, at least not a person in his right mind would do that. And then you look at the model's posts. A beautiful, perfect body, make-upped, filtered, double filtered face and you start to think that you look ugly. All that comparisons you make will make you feel miserable. In the end contentment is what makes you happy, the ability to accept and be grateful with what you have is what makes happy. I know we all know this deep inside, but it's not easy to live this mindset, even I, who have wrote this comment am trying to live a happy life, I don't think I'm happy yet. I also don't think happiness is so simple that anyone can claim to be happy.

[@rightasrain7949]

"Du skal ikke tro du er noe.. " Janteloven er ikke noe å være stolt av. Grunnen til at den ikke går i USA er fordi mindre verdighet ikke er noe man oppmuntrer. Dessuten behøver ikke alle følge samme tanke gang. Man kan være individer med ulike meninger og utsikter som ikke behøver godkjennes av alle.

[@plung3r]

@@rightasrain7949 sorry I don't speak Norwegian, can you write in English please.

[@rightasrain7949]

@@plung3r "You are not to think that you're anyone special or better than us" (first law of Jante) The law of Jante is nothing to be proud of. The reason this law doesn't work in the US is that being thought of as less than anyone is not encouraged. In addition, not everyone needs to follow along with the same lines of thought. You can be an individual with different ideas and outlooks which does not need the approval of others.

[@plung3r]

@@rightasrain7949 Yes I agree with you. People shouldn't think they are special or better than others, it's actually dangerous to do that. And yes this thought is not encouraged in USA and many places because of the extreme capitalism and greed. The more you have, the stronger you are. I think wealth in extreme capitalistic countries is credited to the individual and not to the people who helped the individual become wealthy, that's why there is a big gap between the rich and the poor, which in turn causes societal problems. The elite doesn't want to share their wealth, actually it should be called giving back some of the money to the people who helped you become rich. That's why they spread propaganda against socialism. Greed.

[@rightasrain7949]

@@plung3r I think you misunderstood. I don't agree with socialism. There's a happy medium where people have incentive to work hard and get rewarded without having to give it all up to the state. Human nature does not work on the principle of giving up everything for others. It's been tried and it fails every time.

[@richardnelson3227]

Happiness is a choice. I am very happy, even with everything going on around me. It is a choice I make. I will not be a victim of surroundings.

[@media3948]

Good job @simple norwegian

[@sharvaniregmi9703]

love the videos! greetings from Nepal 🇳🇵

[@fymchannel3946]

hello . greeting from borneo

[@raakeshgr397]

Probably cause.. (2:30) girls like you by maroon 5 gloriously playing in town square.. I mean music make everything better.. Good music..

[@lynmay8880]

I love Norwegian people

[@loganodinson4661]

Beautiful nature and beautiful women

[@ArthurShelby-PB]

I really want to move to Norway and live there but I don't speak the language nor do I have the best qualifications :(

[@GarnetsWeb]

Follow your dreams! You only need A1 level to move there. Watch Norwegian shows and movies, listen and speak it to yourself as much as you can. I believe in you!

[@eaubert1]

I am hoping to move to Norway. I live in Switzerland and essentially it's all about the salaries.

[@jamesvandemark2086]

Trondheim- our grandfather's family is there........half my DNA is Norwegian. So I'm happy half of the time? Explains a lot! 🙃

[@savednorwegian]

Its because we got good standards, quite safe and we dont have to live like we did past 1000+ years in the frozen rainy but beautiful land lol

[@Jerry113]

thoughtful answers are thoughtful

[@marijose4471]

Smart nation. Nothing else to say

[@laudemara.b.1736]

Praticamente não existe problemas na Noruega, acho que é por isso que vocês são felizes😁

[@I_L_W_1998]

Jeg elsker Trondheim 🩷

[@excalibur666]

I wish i lived there ... Or will, one day

[@irhampurnama532]

Whoever you are wearing blue shirt with blonde hair, I just want to say I love you 💕

[@media3948]

She’s dope, no doubt. I love the other blonde, with black and yellow sweater. Hey, you wanna find out who they are?

[@media3948]

She’s from Drammen BTW

[@kakashisenpai99]

I want to live in Norway. I'm dead in my country

[@karlosdaniel6537]

Where do you live?

[@harrodsfan]

Where's that ?

[@Sirmochi1]

the girl in the blue shirt is so beautiful

[@MK-vh9wz]

@@viljethorsen8687 lol, you look good.

[@thepassivecashflow1768]

OH god how am i ever going to learn to speak bokmål looks like i'm stuck in the US...

[@klasnm_5364]

Don't worry, we all speak english

[@thepassivecashflow1768]

@@klasnm_5364 don't I have to if I wanna get citizenship?

[@klasnm_5364]

@@thepassivecashflow1768 you can learn while you're here. Not 100% sure but I think you have to be here for five years before citizenship. Should give you plenty of time to realize that english and norwegian have many similarities(both Germanic languages). Word order is pretty much the same and we also share vocabulary. The hard part is pronunciation but we don't mind if you don't speak perfect norwegian. So don't worry you got this. First lesson: learn the alphabet in norwegian

[@thepassivecashflow1768]

@@klasnm_5364 I will look into this thank you!

[@klasnm_5364]

@@thepassivecashflow1768 good luck

[@gibbzster]

Wow i think they are happy because they are not too preoccupied trying to survive meeting their most basic of needs (food, housing and job) their government supports their citizens their needs with dignity. In other countries even developed ones, only the rich can really get the benefit from the wealth and security.

[@harrodsfan]

The blonde girl is right, they are a wealthy nation, with no political or social turmoil, very relaxed and liberal and not a care in the world. Yep that's it.

[@chrislfc2317]

"The blonde girl" Every girl that is ethinically norwegian is a blonde

[@xinli9824]

So at the end of each video, people are always asked where their dialect comes from, which makes me feel like every geographic location, or even each city in Norway has its own dialect. Is that the case in Norway ?

[@plung3r]

I think that's the case all over the world.

[@xinli9824]

@@plung3r Actually, no. France has a much bigger population, it has some regional accents and only a handful of dialects (Due to its centralised language policies in the past : France used to have a much more diverse linguistic landscape). Iceland, if I am not mistaken, doesn't have dialects and probably has one regional accent.

[@plung3r]

@@xinli9824 oh I see, I'm surprised about Iceland having a single accent. Maybe because of the small population.

[@xinli9824]

@@plung3r I didn't express it very well. I mean if I am not mistaken, Iceland has a "generic accent" and maybe one regional accent . I think it is due to its small population

[@DameofShalott]

@@xinli9824 It is a strinking and interesting fact about Norway: they have mannnyyyyy local dialects! The linguistical landscape of Norway is extremely complex. The main language, Bokmål, is a Norwegian version of classical Danish. But it is used for written texts. People speak their own version of Norwegian. As a country where transportation was not always available during harsh winters, villages would be most isolated, which enhanced dialectisation of the main language. The example of France, which you expose here is very right. Just imagine France a century ago, with all its local versions of patois, and you have the picture of how it is here, except that there is Bokmål and Nynorsk (a contemporary creation based on Norwegian dialects which were less impacted by the Danish hegemony, as an attempt to create a more authentic though artificial Norwegian language) to ensure global communication (French ppl speaking patois would sometimes not understand/speak French properly deep in the countryside). Those dialects are a pride for Norwegian ppl, just like the local versions of their traditional clothing.

[@dsm2240]

When oil was discovered in the 60's, the government committed itself to using that revenue not to enrich shareholders, but to support public welfare. The results speak for themselves.

[@Ulyssestnt]

In Norway they cut down all the tallest trees,if you are one of those tall trees you will be miserable.

[@bobmalibaliyahmarley1551]

I am happy in Norway because I feel people's freedom and independancy is valued and respected. Norway is the best country to live in!

[@briandavis849]

Definitely not

[@muskelversagen]

4:29 how is one supposed to understand her? I image that its very difficult even for native speakers.

[@sherriffs2554]

Hmm...Norway is also the 14th largest consumer of antidepressants.

[@quackquack7595]

I guess it's about they have reached a certain amount of gratification economically etc. as a society, therefore they gotta be feeling they've got no purpose anymore. Well, at least this is what i heard.

[@t0mat05]

Finland have also a lot of suicide

[@gullfeber]

www.statista.com/chart/4019/the-worlds-biggest-consumers-of-antidepressant/ not even on the list

[@gullfeber]

@@soddeti well thats because they arent miserable

[@sherriffs2554]

I always thought it was because of the darker months. When I was staying there my roommate always complained the darkness was depressing. www.vox.com/2015/2/24/8101117/chart-scandinavians-take-a-lot-of-antidepressants-that-might-be-a

[@reddead112]

you should find a way to publicize your channel

[@mahalagaaarecap]

my opinion why norwegian people are happy. because, each of everyone are equal opportunity. no crab mentality. that is why i want to live soon in norway, rather in my country.

[@jasonhaven7170]

3:20 "They"? Come on, you're so fluent, you are Norwegian!

[@sveinstmobekken2175]

I feel someone should mention the fact we also rank very high on suicide rates and anti depressant medicine useage... The dead can't vote, so more happy happy people ;-)

[@maskarasoares6477]

I heard comments that in Norway people are cold, distant and indifferent to foreigners. They act with apparent receptivity and formal education, but what they really strive to do is always establish a distance relationship with people from other cultures (even among themselves). It is as if the really relevant Social Principle were to erect 'Berlin Walls' among People. I do not know to what extent all of these statements are true, or if they are not somewhat exaggerated. The question is: what is a Norwegian like, from a psychological and social point of view in general?

[@sveinstmobekken2175]

@@maskarasoares6477 I feel this question would be best answered by a non-norwegian, but I'll try. I think you could replace the word "foreigners" with "strangers". You will ofcourse find individual differences as you would any other place, but nordic people, maybe norwegians and soumi to a more extreme extent, values personal space much more than other people I have come across. I feel it's more like we do not under any circumstance want to come across as intrusive or overly inquisitive. We would much rather come across as rude or ignorant :-)

[@endlessdreamkitchen]

👌👌

[@gegeforment9533]

I will not agree that happy people. Many here is depressed due to culture and weather. But I can say it’s good system and good salary. I have many friends from different part of the world living here, they can say norway is too boring, and I totally agree with that. As a foreigner it’s only good here to work and earn money, and travel outside norway to enjoy life.

[@salazarway]

Nice video, they seem happy and as healthy as a Southern. Then how you can explain the massive numbers of suicide? Cheers guys.

[@TicTac2]

is this a reupload? sure I've seen those girls before

[@SimpleNorwegian]

Same girls, different topic

[@helenee.5462]

I don't think Norwegians know what happiness means, how unhappy they are compared to other more "poor" countries.. You see it in peoples eyes and how they have a huge insecurity/lack self-esteem when they talk , that they're missing something. And I belive it's true connection with other human beings. I am Norwegian, and I don't think people are as happy. We are safe, not happy, that is not the same. We have a very high suicide rate and we're also extremely lonely compared to most other countries. I know of more than 10 people who have taken their own life, ranging from 13-28 years old. I also know of a lot of immigrants that dislike Norway and are depressed here, and wants to go back to their home country. We've all been fed "Norway is the greatest country", "its like winning a lottery to be born in Norway", "we live a good life up here". Honestly, look at the people in this video, do they truly look happy.. "I guess we're happy" - not something a happy person would say.

[@db2184]

There are tradeoffs with every culture and way of being. Compare Norway to Brazil. In Brazil, the people seem happier, more vibrant, have more "fun" compared to Norway. However, there is deep poverty, and one of the highest crime rates in world. It seems to me there is a connection between highly extroverted culture and danger/ socioeconomic stability. Personally I think Norweigens have struck a good balance between between being measured and being free spirited. But it seems all people want to experience new realities and consciousness, no matter how "good" their upbringing.

[@joppekim]

When the biggest issue is about the electric bill you know you live in a good country.

[@marijose4471]

Somehow Norway maneged to be developed and spread the money to all Norwegians

[@agustinamansur5665]

That's socialism :)

[@Lets-Walk-Around]

Eventhough Norway and Sweden are neighbours but we in Sweden thinks Norwegians are more Happy then us 😅

[@DanneyTanner]

The most used word in Norway is aaaahhhh

[@parranoya100]

In the US, happiness is taxed.

[@nbalbrecht8942]

Hey, Norway has one of the highest taxes in the world. The point is that they spend taxpayers' money to healthcare, education and the environment protection.

[@gullfeber]

@@nbalbrecht8942 income tax? they do not. Most pay between 22-30%. This is not by any means a high taxation percentage

[@gullfeber]

@Lola Montez lol no. The maximum income tax you can pay is 49%, which means you earn over a million nok. If you earn around 500.000 you pay 34%, which is just below the average income (560.000NOK)

[@gullfeber]

@Lola Montez Average income: 566.000NOK. Average tax: 30% If norway had the same tax rate as the US, everyone would be a multi millionaire. Workers in big cities in Norway also earn far more than that, as Norway has a higher density of millionaires than the US. VAT is expensive for foreigners yes, as most products is taxed at 25%. This however does not concern most citizens, as it is relative to the income. Norway also has one of the worlds cheapest prices for electronics. Electric cars are exempt from taxes and makes it relatively cheap. Tons of teslas, Audi E-trons, Jaguars etc. Real estate, like everywhere else on earth is based off of location when it comes to price. Living in oslo is expensive, not on the countryside. Education and healthcare is not free, its included in the income tax. However, we dont need to pay any extra for it except for a small fee (around $30) for everything from a broken bone to a complex brain surgery, and this fee will disappear if you are in need of medical treatment more than 3 times a year. Education costs aorund $80 a year which is nothing. Keep in mind that the medical treatment has the same fee for everything, including extensive and long hospital stays/treatments like cancer etc which will then be completely free of charge. One of several reasons why Norways healthcare is among the 15 best in the world. Im currently studying in the UK. My government grants me (and everyone else) with a loan of around $35800 every year for university costs, stay and necessities. If i pass my final exams, 40% of this loan will be converted to a scholarship. This amount will be substantially higher for students with learning disabilities. I would gladly pay taxes for this cause. Interest rate is around 1,3% I do not know why you bring socialism in this discussion, as Norway has never been and will never become socialist.

[@gullfeber]

@Lola Montez If your norwegian "contacts" claim to pay 50% taxes, there can only be three possible reasons; 1. They are lying 2. They have an income above 1 million NOK 3. They pay so voluntarily, as the maximum amount is, as i just said, 49%. Not every Norwegian has kids, so i dont know why you bring that up. Earning over 500.000NOK each year with a tax rate as low as 11% would mean it doesnt take many years to have savings above a million, which by definition makes you a millionaire. Now, if you are unable to contribute to a discussion without attacking your opponent's intellect, you lose. I'd advise you to grow up

[@ltecosphere3701]

Norway Fun Fact : The world's longest road tunnel is in Norway

[@zaranski2009]

Their happy face: 😐

[@alexxela754]

Good healthy and not egoistic politicians that think of the country instead of themselves.

[@agustinamansur5665]

Let's say that socialism is practical in Norway 💙

[@lpdude2005]

Socialism is an ideology - which has never been in Norway. We have capitalism. We live in a democracy with great social security because it is nationally economically profitable. You must be able to understand the difference. Socialism has never worked anywhere on the planet

[@user-dc4bl1cu2k]

They have a small and sustainable population kept in check by the cold

[@torekristoffersen176]

Janteloven has a lot to do with it....... the one lady mentions this.... many in the world would be hard pressed to apply these principles..... ❤️🇳🇴

[@torekristoffersen176]

lina anil yes, you are correct. Janteloven would NEVER go over in the USA. There is a lot of wealth in that country, they have more millionaires and billionaires than any other country on earth, but so many people are greedy. Many also do not want to work and want a handout. There needs to be a happy medium. It is sad and pitiful really.

[@torekristoffersen176]

lina anil no, nobody should ever be left behind. People should be taken care of. However there is a movement that has been happening for some time that many people do not want to work, but want a hand out from the local governments, etc. It is not everywhere, but many countries have this problem. My family is from Bergen, but I live in the USA now. And I have lived in a couple other countries across the world, so I have seen how different countries deal with some of these issues.

[@torekristoffersen176]

lina anil First: I did not mention immigrants. The USA takes in more immigrants than any other country in the world on a yearly basis. Second: my family (and the other five million Norwegians you reference) immigrated to the US before there was a welfare system, so everything they received, they worked for. The USA is not perfect, and is a long shot from it. We need to learn from others in many aspects. I did not digress down this rabbit hole. I made my first comment to point out that in many countries the law of jante would not work as it does in Nordic countries. I think it is marvelous. However we live in a world of instantaneous satisfaction and many have a narcissistic approach to life. This is not the way to be. We need to reach out to all people and sustain life, liberty and the pursuit therein. However, statistics in the US show that a high percentage of the 335 million population are not paying into the federal tax system to sustain such an equality payout system as I believe you are referring to. This simply cannot sustain itself. It is a net zero, if not a net loss system (as things exist now). Things would have to change here in America......

[@torekristoffersen176]

lina anil in my personal opinion, I believe that Norway should have an open border; yet have in place conditions and stipulations that must be met for entry. 1- have a job lined up ahead of time, or at least be employable. 2- have a native sponsor. 3- show what you can do to better the local community and nation as a whole. 4- have a plan in place to better your life with education and / or vocation. 5- show you are self supporting or have a plan and time line in place to make you such. 6- show proficiency in the Norsk language and continue to learn it until fluent. 7- show ways you plan to assimilate into the culture and society in Norge. 8- if you are a refugee, many of these things may not apply but they would be a bonus for the review committee that processes your paper work for entry allowance. Members of any given society should contribute what they are able for the betterment and work to form a fulfilling community that supports himself / herself back. This is a symbiotic relationship. It is not a one way road. These are my thoughts initially. I’m sure I have overlooked many, and could improve upon others after I see a working mode in place. I certainly do not know it all, and have no experience in these affairs on a national level.

[@gullfeber]

@@torekristoffersen176 norway actually has more millionares per capita

[@Lita1]

I think, as a Norwegian the 5th is untrue. We're totally number 1 but the other countries LIE DAM IT!!!!😅 Still happy. The truth is they have more population actually. The reason why Norwegians are so happy is because...if they're like me...just saying from my perspective. Grateful and have peace today. Thinking about today. Now, making the most out of it, appreciating being Norwegian and most importantly the beautiful land that calls us every day and says 'HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO NOOOOOOOOOOORWAYYYYYYYYYYYYY BRA'. I liked this video yes!!!!👍😅

[@GarnetsWeb]

You're lucky to be in Norway! It is a beautfiul country! Greetings from the USA!

[@Lita1]

@@GarnetsWeb IKR and thank you USA personyes!!!!👍😅

[@Daniela-wg9nz]

🤦🏻‍♀️

[@theandreas9262]

Norwegian in general looks like their nature, nice and beatiful but cold :) their smile is polite and nice but really private. I am still trying to learn your language so I can break Norwegian "Ice" :)

[@Lita1]

@@theandreas9262 true say. There is a trust issue where Norwegian people look at the person overtime to see if they're a good person. Once that's proven then it's Bff's forever to be honest. This is the same with Norwegian people to eachother too. We're slow and steady then it's commitment after that forevermore. At least that's what my parents taught me. I personally think it works yes!!!!👍😅

[@annehalonen9451]

People in Finland are happier... even without any oil 😊

[@IsaGirlGamer]

2:08 se reminds me of a friend of mine but in the Caucasian version haha. Nordic women are sooooo pretty!! Greetings from Guatemala 🇬🇹 😉

[@opamusic9457]

great videos to know the norwegian culture. You are so lucky to live in a country like that but unfortunately, that individualism and lack of "human contact" is very important. At the end, we will all die the same, doesn`t matter in which house or with how many cars, the people around us matters.

[@alghurraba]

I'd not say they're happy. It's just kinda their outter mask, always happy and chatty and smiling but it's just a mask. This is my own experience. Many of them suffer depression and other mental problems and drink a lot, many feel lost in life because of many factors. Money are not everything and the poorest of all is the person who has only money. I'm not surprised because weather is literally horrible, it's like materialised depression and desperation. Darkness, coldness and empty streets, nowhere to go, everything closed after 8PM.

[@hvasomhelst]

I don't mean to be rude but actually if they could come and live in 3rd world countries, even for a day or so, they would be extremely happy about their lives. When it is too easy to live, people more likely to want more and more and get sad over it maybe?

[@ardakrakhmetov4653]

There’s saying in my language: “Everything comes truth in comparison”. If they just lived one week in my country, and have experienced all live issues of regular person from my country, they will feel themselves very lucky and privileged that they born in such country as Norway.

[@plung3r]

It's the mindset and way of life. Weather has nothing to do with. There are people who live in the desert, with nothing but sand, camel and sheep, but are 100x happier than most people in whole of the world.

[@e30clew]

Well thats not true at all. I Know noone who uses ”hen” unless they do not know the gender, Then maybe some people will use it. We are way closer to capitalism than socialism and thats a fact.

[@e30clew]

Do you base your world view on Fox News perhaps? Just because other countries than us has a Tiny bit of another definition of Free speech doesnt meen it doesnt exist. Swedens free speech and free press Laws are the oldest in the world, from 1766 10 years before us even was a country! Only diference is that its illegal to use ”hate speech”. The state is not allowed to censur anything. The amount of taxes may be correct, i dont mind though

[@gegeforment9533]

I’m addition with that they only happy when they are drunk😀😀😀✌️False happiness

[@nikunjarya9641]

Recent events make me think, are they really happy anymore? Think about it!!

[@SimpleNorwegian]

Which recent events are you referring to?

[@nikunjarya9641]

@@SimpleNorwegian Events happened after Malmo incident.

[@gullfeber]

@@nikunjarya9641 malmö is in sweden

[@nikunjarya9641]

@@gullfeber I was speaking about the events happened in Norway after the Malmo incident. I saw it on news, how they were shouting in streets.

[@gullfeber]

Nikunj Arya what incident?

[@aziatix1168]

French guy is really handsome

[@alexntu1]

They are rich lol !!!

[@lucasdias2582]

Maybe because their HDI is the highest in the world? 🤣

[@Moreanolc]

Is it possible to live in Norway just by speaking English?

[@briandavis849]

i don’t recommend it. Sucks!

[@Moreanolc]

@@briandavis849 What does? Living in Norway or only speaking English while living there?

[@briandavis849]

@@Moreanolc living in Norway

[@briandavis849]

@@Moreanolc but yes, you can get by without speaking Norwegian for most things.

[@ximuta7707]

Trust. You can have all the welfare in the world, but If you don't trust the people around you, you will be less happy. Norwegians are very trusting towards strangers or at least people they have talked to for 2 minutes. And we also very much want to fit in. Our strong norms make rude or unpleasant behavior very rare in our daily life.

[@gullfeber]

wealthfare isnt much to brag about, its less than minimum wage