Culture of Finland

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The Culture of Finland is inherently hard to define. However, there are some general characteristics often associated with Finnish society and every day culture. Finns are generally a reserved people, like other Nordic peoples in Norway or Sweden. Traditionally, Finns enjoy peace and nature, though the modern, urban lifestyle is popular with many.

A sense of melancholy and depression is sometimes associated with the Finns. People in Finland are reserved when meeting strangers and sometimes take a long time to become familiar with others but, as a result, relationships are deep and lasting. Alcohol is considered to be an effective method of lowering these inhibitions. Still, Finns tend to be less gregarious and inclined to small talk than most of their European peers.

Finns are proud that their country has managed to rise from its relative poverty during the early 20th century to a modern, prosperous democracy. Equality is an important part of Finnish culture as in other Nordic countries, so much so that success or what may be seen as a deliberate attempt to distinguish oneself from others may be viewed with hostility. It is commonly frowned upon in Nordic cultures to believe yourself to be better than others, whether by birth or achievement.

The Finnish national character is called sisu, for which an exact English equivalent does not exist. Composed of stamina, tenacity and sheer will, it is a kind of tough, persevering strength in the face of adversity. Rather than the Germanic Wille zur Macht (will to power), it is the will never to buckle under or collapse or be dominated. Historically, the Finns have had to be a tough people to survive with their own culture and language in the face of incessant Russian aggression alternating with Swedish rule. (See also: History of Finland)

Despite its difficult history, Finland has exported its culture far out of proportion to its small population. Finnish designers and musicians led the way, and today Finland is known for its technological products such as Nokia and Linux.

Government contributions to culture have increased steadily in recent years, but viewed against the present government's firm objective to limit public expenditures, contributions will stabilize in the future. Most support goes to libraries and archives, theater, museums, arts and crafts training, and films.