Source: "The Social Guidebook to Norway"

As a young man, I was told

That a man should always walk between a woman and the cars

That a man should always open doors for women

That a man should walk women home at night

When I got to Norway, women told me

They could open doors themselves

That I should not change side of the sidewalk

And thought I was trying to get in bed with them when walking them home at night

Genders relate differently in Norway

Perhaps for good reasons

Gender-based politeness gestures common in so many countries

Often empower men

Putting them in a position of control and authority

Genders are equal in Norway

It makes gender interactions simpler

Norwegian men often do what is most practical and efficient

 It helps to prevent conflict

Ensure equality

And everyone is happy

Many Norwegian women prefer that men do not open doors

They feel that a man opening the door makes them inferior 

Off course

The way Norwegian women react to foreign gallantry varies 

Expecially with age

I learnt to love Norwegian women

Off all ages

Some say this is what keeps me in Norway

--

By Julien S. Bourrelle

Watch him on TED

Book a lecture info@monda.no

Source: "The Social Guidebook to Norway"