The term Hygge has become a global trend in recent years. Instagram posts, magazines and home accessories testify to the popularity of this Scandinavian concept. But what is Hygge really about? Is it just a marketing strategy or a deeply rooted philosophy of life?
Dr. Jeppe Linnet, an expert in this field, explains in an interview with Fluter magazine that hygge is much more than candles and pillows. This article sheds light on the origins, cultural influences and meaning of hygge in modern society.
Origin and Meaning of Hygge
The word hygge comes from Old Norse and was used in Viking times to describe a place where one could feel safe and recharge one's batteries. Dr. Linnet points out that hygge also has a linguistic connection to the English term to hug , which reflects the close connection to security and warmth. This concept developed specifically in Scandinavia and reflects the climatic and social conditions of this region.
Scandinavian culture traditionally places great value on the home as a central place for relaxation and togetherness. "There is a focus on the home as a place to gather with other people or to retreat," explains Dr. Linnet, thus illustrating the holistic approach behind Hygge.
Especially in the long, dark winter months, the cozy home serves as a shelter that provides the necessary security through the warm light and the family atmosphere.
Hygge as a cultural value: A peaceful social ideal
Hygge is more than just a personal well-being concept. In Denmark, it is a deeply rooted cultural value that significantly influences social norms and values.
"For the USA, freedom is such a concept, for Danes it is hygge," explains Dr. Linnet, describing how much hygge as an ideology shapes the self-image of the Danes. The focus is on a peaceful way of life and the rejection of conflict. Hygge connects and brings people together, it emphasizes togetherness and equality - all aspects that play a central role in Scandinavian society.
Denmark has historically been characterized by political neutrality and a strong welfare state. The values of Hygge are closely linked to the Danish tradition of flat hierarchies and equality. The meaning of Hygge is therefore not only about private coziness, but also reflects a political and social attitude.
From Philosophy to Trend: The Marketing of Hygge
In recent years, hygge has increasingly become a commercial brand. Dr. Linnet notes that many books that have been published about hygge promise that you can "design happiness" by incorporating certain products and designs into your home.
The trend has spawned an industry around candles, pillows and home accessories, and attracts tourists who take so-called hygge tours in Copenhagen to experience the lifestyle for themselves. This marketing presents hygge as a design and lifestyle trend, making it seem almost like a brand.
However, there is a certain superficiality to this commercialization. Hygge is not originally a design concept, but rather an attitude to life that brings peace and security into everyday life. The hype is often interpreted as a form of escapism, as Hygge helps people to isolate themselves from the complex and often overwhelming problems of the modern world and to retreat into private life.
Hygge as a retreat in a complex world
In a time of increasing global uncertainty, Hygge offers many people a safe haven. The concept promotes conscious awareness of one's own needs and attention to the people in one's immediate surroundings.
“On an individual level, Hygge works when you think about how to create spaces in which you can recharge your batteries,” emphasizes Dr. Linnet, describing Hygge as an active way of living.
However, this retreat into the private sphere also entails risks. If people increasingly turn away from the public sphere and the challenges facing society, there is a risk of alienation.
"Philosophically speaking, there is a danger in not wanting to deal with the complexities of the world anymore," warns Dr. Linnet, stressing that hygge is not a threat to democracy. Rather, it is a retreat that is deeply rooted in Danish society and aims above all at community and inner peace.
Hygge and Democracy: Is Withdrawal a Danger?
Although hygge has a positive effect as an individual well-being concept, the question remains whether an increased retreat into the private sphere can endanger democracy. Dr. Linnet explains that hygge alone does not pose a threat, but warns against a global tendency to give up one's own responsibility for social issues and turn to simple solutions.
"It would certainly be too strong to say that hygge is a threat to democracy," he clarifies, but from a philosophical point of view there is a danger when people only focus on their private lives.
Conclusion: Hygge as a social and cultural value
Hygge is much more than just a trend. It is an expression of Scandinavian culture and represents values such as equality, community and the desire for peace. Although the commercialization of hygge has partly transformed the essence into a lifestyle, the concept remains an inspiring way of life that represents a way for many people to find peace and security.
The cultural value of Hygge lies in its emphasis on togetherness and appreciation of the everyday. In a hectic and often confusing world, Hygge is a philosophy that reminds us that true contentment is not found in big experiences, but in small, mindful moments.
