The philosophy of happiness in Norwegian perspective

Abstract

Over the past decades, Norway has consistently ranked among the top three countries in the World Happiness Report, published annually by the United Nations. The high level of subjective well-being among Norwegians is often attributed to economic prosperity, a strong welfare system, and the efficient functioning of state institutions. However, Norwegians themselves rarely speak of happiness as a fleeting emotional state and do not associate it directly with material wealth. Instead, happiness is understood as a way of being-deeply rooted in the natural, social, cultural, and moral foundations of Norwegian life-and closely linked to a sense of belonging, harmony with nature, inner peace, and balance. What, then, constitutes the philosophical foundations of happiness «the Norwegian way»? Is it the value system of Norwegian society, the prevailing worldview, the established culture of equality, or the distinct features of Norwegian identity? Answering this question is essential for understanding and interpreting the subjective experience of happiness and the individual’s attainment of harmony with nature, society, and the self.