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Collage: Christine Vierø Larsen. Originalfoto: Jens Dresling, Mads Nissen, Freepik

Both the king and the prime minister do it. Just like influencers, business leaders, and the country’s major sports stars.

A form of emotional incontinence has spread in the public sphere. But why do public figures suddenly cry on TV or openly talk about their private episodes of watery eyes? What do they risk by doing so? And why does mankind, as the only species on earth, shed emotional tears?

»Now I'm starting to howl again«

Collage: Christine Vierø Larsen. Originalfoto: Jens Dresling, Mads Nissen, Freepik
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Frederik had to wipe his eyes as he was proclaimed king on the balcony in January 2024.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen (Socialdemokratiet, S) cried on live camera when she visited a mink farmer during the coronavirus pandemic, who had to put his entire stock to death.

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