Danish Society & Culture
Egalitarianism in Danish Society
◾Denmark is an egalitarian society.
◾Interestingly this is reflected in their language, which employs gender-neutral words.
◾Most Danes are modest about their own accomplishments and are more concerned about the group than their own individual needs.
◾Maternity and paternity leave provisions are particularly generous in Denmark.
◾Men are more actively involved in child-rearing activities than in many countries, although the division of domestic chores is similar to other developed countries.
Women in Danish Society
◾Women are highly respected in business and generally receive equal pay and have access to senior positions.
◾Working mothers can easily arrange flexible hours so that they can maintain both a career and a family.
◾Danish women expect to be treated with respect in the office.
Proper Public Behaviour
◾Danes believe there is one proper way in which to act in any given circumstance.
◾If someone is not following the rules, be they written or merely understood, someone will generally speak up and admonish them to obey the accepted protocol.
◾They expect courteous behaviour from everyone.
◾Talk in moderate tones and do not do anything to call attention to yourself.
Danish Family Values
◾Most families are small.
◾The nuclear family is the centre of the social structure.
◾Children are raised to be independent from an early age.
◾Most are put in day care centres at about 1 years old.
◾Marriage is not a prerequisite to starting a family. Many couples live together without legalizing the arrangement with marriag