The Nordic Theory of Love asserts that unhealthy dependencies inhibit our ability to truly love one another - that true love thrives under circumstances that establish independence and equality. Understanding this theory is key to understanding the economic and social policies in Nordic countries, policies that continuously have them topping out the rankings in the World Happiness Report. Nordic societies put in place social safety nets - including universal access to family leave, childcare, healthcare, and education - in order to free individuals from cycles of dependency and live more authentically. Or at least that is the theory. Does it work?
Finnish journalist and author Anu Partanen is here to explain how all these policies play out in Nordic societies and why she thinks they actually could work, especially at the state level, in the USA. I ask her all the questions I've always wanted to know about Nordic countries - How do businesses keep running if everyone is continuously taking off for maternity leave? What about those infamous wait times when you go the doctor? Is this really just a culture obsessed with conformity?
I hope this conversation gives you a lot to think about and I would love to hear your thoughts!
Guest: Anu Partanen, author of the Nordic Theory of Everything: In Search of a Better Life
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