Many criticize Scandinavian people for being cold. It’s true, they aren’t dramatic about expressing themselves, but maybe drama isn’t so great. If you think about Star Trek, Mr. Spock is an evolved being who doesn’t exhibit violence because he manages his emotions.

I find Scandinavians to be the adults of this world. They are no longer swayed by the adolescent passions that drive the rest of us into conflict. I used to think that humans thrive on drama, but after visiting here, I think some humans have decided that life is better without drama. Perhaps there’s something to that.

Finland’s children continuously rank at the top of test scores worldwide. Denmark has several times been voted the happiest country in the world. When I talk to Finnish people they consistently speak of the importance of quality of life. It’s impressive that countries that are so individualistic also understand the importance of investing in their community.

They have the best transportation systems I’ve ever ridden. Wherever a road is built for a car, a bike path is built beside it. That includes freeways. Without complaint, they pay up to 60% of their income in taxes to provide all of their people with healthcare and quality education, selecting teachers from the top 10% of college graduates.

Their people are not just the citizens of the country. They are immigrants and refugees. In addition to providing sanctuary, Scandinavians provide housing and language classes. I saw no one sleeping on the street in any of the Nordic countries I visited. I saw very little trash on the streets. I heard no one yelling, no one honking, no one fighting.

Yes, Scandinavians are reserved, particularly with strangers, but I found them quick to warm up when I talked with them. Never did I see any lose their temper. Perhaps we can take a lesson from these people to become less passionate about our rights and more practical about our responsibilities.