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High Road to Culture in Flanders and the Netherlands
Is there such a thing as a ‘Dutch identity’? And if so, what does it look like? Jan Renkema provides a clear analysis of the main characteristics in his pamphlet ‘The DNA of the Netherlands’. He does this in the form of a conversation between a curious foreigner and a Dutch expert. Ideal reading material both for people who think they know what makes them Dutch and for those who can sometimes feel irritated by the Dutch.
Jan Renkema provides a clear analysis of the Dutch identity in his pamphlet ‘The DNA of the Netherlands’. He starts with a conversation on a flight to Schiphol.
The Dutch have a constant willingness to compromise and whose aim above all is a general consensus.
In a country of polders, flatness defines everything. This flatness means that nobody can rise above you, nor you above them.
Due to the openness and the usually quick acceptance of various groups the Netherlands has been able to develop as a country in which modern ideas can flourish.
The diverse groups in the Netherlands must work together. This might explain why the Dutch have developed a high degree of tolerance.
Due to the population density, the Dutch have developed a strong sense of individuality and privacy.
The Dutch like to fend for themselves, for fear of further interference. They love their freedom and independence.
The Dutch have a strong entrepreneurial spirit. In the seventeenth century, they were responsible for the world's first multinational company.
Jan Renkema gives an overview of the core trademarks of Dutch identity.
In the last episode of the series ‘The DNA of the Netherlands’, we find out what the national motto ‘Je maintiendrai’ really stands for.
