"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...
Eisboch wrote:
"Harry Krause" wrote in message
. ..

The average Norwegian has a much higher quality standard of living than
the average American. I was astonished when I visited my friends there.

True statement due to the socialistic structure of their government,
however it does not tell the whole story.
I have relatives in both Norway and Sweden. Both countries consist of
the "haves" and "have nots". Those whose families owned land and/or
farms and held them within the family for generations control most of the
wealth of the respective country and have the most political influence.
The "have-nots" are well provided for by our standards, but have limited
opportunity to change their status. One of the admired qualities of the
US in both Norway and Sweden is the greater opportunity by all to change
or improve their status. My Swedish relatives are multi-generation land
owners. My Norwegian relatives are not, but both have similar views of
the US.

Eisboch


The majority of Americans are moving backwards economically in terms of
earnings, and many have lost or are losing good employment, insurance,
even their houses.

Another statistic to ponder, from NPR a few months ago. You can probably
find more online if you try:

The difference in income (adjusted for inflation) between fathers & sons
since the 1950s is getting smaller & smaller. You could pick this apart
without knowing more, but the news report contained all the necessary
information to understand it better.