Standing out or fitting in?

This historically and reliable relationship has important aspects that they have yet to learn from one another. Each country lacks something vital that the other masters.

The United States is built on the ideals of individualism and the value of freedom over anything else, a great mosaic of interwoven religions, identities, foods, and languages. Whereas Norway is built on the ideals of humility, conformity, and equality, as seen in «Janteloven» and its egalitarian roots.

There are, of course, several downsides to both approaches, as negative consequences arise from being too firmly rooted on either side of the spectrum. This phenomenon is greatly reflected in both societies. One must embrace an ambiguous approach.

Take for example, cultural norms surrounding personal space. The Norwegian method of behaving in public spaces values respecting others to a high degree. If there’s ever a choice between a seat next to someone and an empty seat next to no one, you always choose the empty seat. As well as being explicitly aware of your noise level in relation to its effect on others. 

Whereas in the United States, personal space is much less "respected" in terms of the standard held in Norway. It is more uncommon than not to hear someone or several people particularly loud conversation in any given public space. In the U.S., it is perfectly normal to take an empty seat next to someone. In fact, you could take the empty seat next to someone and mutter a quick greeting or wave, all without freaking anyone out, something that would never happen in Norway. Greeting strangers in public, just for the sake of greeting them and being friendly? Unheard of.

However, I believe that there is something to be learned for both countries. American culture could do with holding the respect of people’s personal space to a higher standard as could Norwegian culture in normalizing small talk with strangers. 

The American value of individualism is sometimes taken too far, but there is also great value in the concept. For example, expressing who you are is not something you should be ashamed of. And the other extreme can be damaging when limits are imposed on how someone is able to express themself i.e. conformity.

The conformity in Norway is greatly reflected in clothing, hairstyles, and make-up looks. Granted, this comparison must be taken with a grain of salt as the two countries in question are quite different in size seeing as how Norway is smaller in land size than California or Texas. But even on a smaller scale does Norway lead in conformity.

Another notable cultural difference is work-ethic and valuing a healthy work-life balance. Norway values working as one facet of life, as a steady support whereas the capitalist culture of the U.S. values living to work. In this way, American culture could do with embracing a healthier and more sustainable work-life balance as seen in Norway.

American and Norwegian culture could do with taking a few notes from one another, especially in terms of respect for others in public spaces, in promoting individualism, and in a healthy work-life balance. A perfect blend is sure to be found between the two. By learning from one another, we can give the saying «Det er helt Texas!» a whole new meaning.