For the Love of Cod: A Father and Son's Search for Norwegian Happiness

Norway is known for being one of the happiest countries in the world, but Eric Dregni and his son Eilif set out to investigate whether this is truly the case. Their comic travelogue, "For the Love of Cod," explores the secrets to Norwegian happiness, including an active environmentalism, a passion for community volunteerism, and a rejection of the mad pace of modernity. The book also examines the commodification of Viking history and the dark side of Black Metal music.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

Norway is often considered one of the happiest countries in the world, consistently ranking high in the World Happiness Report. However, Eric Dregni, who had lived in Norway for a period, had his doubts about whether this reputation was truly justified. He and his wife had experienced Norway's generous healthcare system and financial assistance when their son was born, but they wondered if happiness went beyond these benefits.

Deciding to investigate further, Dregni and his son returned to Norway together in May, a month known for its festivals and abundant sunshine. However, they soon discovered that the cost of living in Norway was astronomical, forcing them to stay with friends and relatives. Despite this challenge, they gained valuable insights into the secrets of Norwegian happiness.

One of the key factors contributing to Norway's happiness is its distribution of wealth. Unlike many other countries, Norway does not have a vast wealth gap between the rich and the poor. Instead, the country's oil revenues are distributed through a social welfare system that provides benefits to all citizens, regardless of their income. This system, known as democratic socialism, results in minimal differences between the rich and the poor, creating a sense of equality and social cohesion.

Locals introduced Dregni and his son to the principles underlying Norwegian contentment. One of these principles is an active environmentalism that translates into a practice called flyskam, which encourages Norwegians to minimize their carbon footprint and travel by public transportation or carpooling. This practice not only reduces pollution but also fosters a sense of community and family bonding, as people are more likely to spend time together during vacations.

Another aspect of Norwegian happiness is the importance placed on community volunteerism and social responsibility. Many Norwegians engage in volunteer work and community projects, contributing to their local communities and fostering a sense of belonging. This sense of community spirit is further strengthened by a strong sense of sa, or "togetherness," which is deeply ingrained in Norwegian culture.

Dregni and his son also discovered that Norway's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle play a significant role in its happiness. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, fjords, and glaciers, which provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Additionally, the Norwegian work-life balance is highly valued, with long vacations and a focus on leisure time.

In conclusion, Dregni and his son's journey to find Norway's supposed bliss reveals that the country is indeed one of the happiest in the world. Norway's success can be attributed to its distribution of wealth, active environmentalism, community spirit, and natural beauty. These principles can be applied to other countries, creating a more equitable and sustainable society.

Dimension: 216 x 137 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517915728