Scandinavia: Europe’s advanced north

Abstract

Scandinavia stands out in being among the richest regions of the world, a good example of politically and economically stable democracy. Scandinavians are experts in modernity and in steady and gradual adaptation to changes in the environment, be it in the economy, in technology or in climate changes. In spite of great differences in geography and natural resources, the three countries, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, represent an excellent example of a country cluster. Indeed they share values and attitudes in many spheres of life. All three countries have gone through a historic development from autocracy to participation at all levels of society. Of special interest are how they manage the labor market and the organizational level. In people management and interpersonal behavior Scandinavians differ from most others.