Norden

[wilpuri]

Thanks, I think this topic definately deserves a thorough discussion, especially among us northerners.

First of all, I agree with you on a sober view of ethnicity. However, the degree of genetic relatedness between Finns and the rest of the Nordbos is not something I put a lot of stress on - it is too narrow a view when thinking about such concepts as supra-identities. The relation, I think, is a cultural one, an identity based on traditions and history. Each locality has its own peculiar cultural variety, of course, but I have all my life felt that a special bond exists between the Nordic countries. Especially in modern times, military competition has all but disappeared and there are several official organs that promote this special cultural and geo-political area.

Of course I might be somewhat influenced by my Finland-Swedish background, but I can say that Finns in general would agree with my view of Norden, or Pohjola, as we call it. When I lived abroad, there were all kinds of organizations and associations specifically for Nordics, we were like one big happy family. And meeting someone from the Nordic countries was always a mutually happy occasion, almost like meeting a compatriot.

However, I do agree that we are sliding apart, rather than getting closer, at the moment. I don't see this as something positive, but its understandable considering the current socio-political climate.

[Lutiferre]

Originally Posted by wilpuri

Thanks, I think this topic definately deserves a thorough discussion, especially among us northerners.

First of all, I agree with you on a sober view of ethnicity. However, the degree of genetic relatedness between Finns and the rest of the Nordbos is not something I put a lot of stress on - it is too narrow a view when thinking about such concepts as supra-identities. The relation, I think, is a cultural one, an identity based on traditions and history. Each locality has its own peculiar cultural variety, of course, but I have all my life felt that a special bond exists between the Nordic countries. Especially in modern times, military competition has all but disappeared and there are several official organs that promote this special cultural and geo-political area.

Of course I might be somewhat influenced by my Finland-Swedish background, but I can say that Finns in general would agree with my view of Norden, or Pohjola, as we call it. When I lived abroad, there were all kinds of organizations and associations specifically for Nordics, we were like one big happy family. And meeting someone from the Nordic countries was always a mutually happy occasion, almost like meeting a compatriot.

However, I do agree that we are sliding apart, rather than getting closer, at the moment. I don't see this as something positive, but its understandable considering the current socio-political climate.

This Nordic comradeship and bond you talk of, is it restricted to Fenno-Scandinavia, that is, Norway, Sweden and Finland, or do you include Denmark? (and perhaps Iceland and other islands)

[wilpuri]

Originally Posted by Lutiferre

This Nordic comradeship and bond you talk of, is it restricted to Fenno-Scandinavia, that is, Norway, Sweden and Finland, or do you include Denmark? (and perhaps Iceland and other islands)

I would include all five countries - of course, the more distant ones like Iceland are less familiar to the everyday Finn, but I'd say it stretches to Denmark. Perhaps Danes are more Central European orientated? I visited Denmark not so long ago, and upon hearing I was from Finland, people usually greeted me (this mostly happened when we were all under the influence, so to say, but still... ) as a long-lost relative or something, like there was a bond between us.