Raunhyggja

Raunhyggja is an Icelandic term that translates to realism or pragmatism. It refers to a worldview or an approach to life that emphasizes practical considerations, factual evidence, and tangible outcomes over abstract theories, idealism, or wishful thinking. Individuals who identify with raunhyggja tend to be grounded in reality, focusing on what is achievable and what can be directly observed or proven.

This perspective often involves a straightforward and unpretentious manner of dealing with situations. It prioritizes common sense and experience as guides for decision-making. Rather than being overly optimistic or pessimistic, raunhyggja suggests a balanced and objective assessment of circumstances. The focus is on facing challenges and opportunities as they are, without excessive embellishment or denial.

In practice, raunhyggja can manifest in various aspects of life, from personal relationships and career choices to political or economic viewpoints. It encourages a no-nonsense attitude, where solutions are sought through practical means and where unrealistic expectations are tempered by a sober understanding of limitations and possibilities. It is not necessarily a philosophy that rejects emotion or creativity, but rather one that insists on a firm connection to the observable world and its inherent constraints.