The Scandinavian Countries.

My wife and I recently recently visited some Scandinavian countries. I had heard much about these "socialists" (not actually socialists but frequently referred to as such)countries from television politicians and political pundits. It was good to hear firsthand what actual citizens thought about their system of government. it seems that in a recent survey that the Danes are the happiest people on earth. Common consensus is that this is because they do not have to be concerned/worried about their welfare. Education, health care from cradle to grave is provided by the government. (Dental care is usually not included and it can be cheaper to fly to the continent for dental work.)

However nothing is free. They are heavily taxed. Income taxes range from 30% to 75%. There is a Value Added Tax of 25% added to anything you buy including food. Taxes on an automobile purchase can be as high as 150%. Every bridge has a toll and free toilets are rare. Most Scandinavian countries are situated on as many as 100 islands islands. According to the statistics after a person pays all the required taxes and food, lodging and normal living costs they would have only about 20% or less of their disposable income to spend as they wish. Unemployment is about 3% which according to experts is about a good as it gets. (There is always a number of people between jobs or entering the workforce for the first time.)

The 37 hour workweek is common. Vacation plus holidays equal about 60 days off from work per year. Both Mom and Dad receive maternity leave.

As a closet Libertarian, I believe that this is a good system for people who wish to cede their wellbeing to the state. It is not for people who want to choose their own destiny and make their own decisions about their own well being.

In defense of these countries, they concentrate on their strengths. Their citizens are educated for the country's major industries. Many of these industries fill niche markets. And, I might add, these countries are very clean.

Another thing they do is require seatbelts on public busses. (A heavy fine for non-compliance.) Something I would like to see on our school busses. Our state requires this in automobiles and trucks but we don't protect our own very future -- our children!

Afterthought: 89% of the citizens of Denmark vote in elections.