Nordic Countries Come Out Near the Top in Two Business Surveys

[Lydia Leftcoast]

Forget the stereotypes about Nordic socialism and how its high taxes and expensive public health care systems are destroying private enterprise.

In two reports, the Nordic countries bested some of the world's hottest economies. The countries dominate the top ranks of a list of most competitive economies in the world, and a new report of the best places to do business.

In the annual global competitiveness rankings of the World Economic Forum, released on Wednesday, Finland was the world's most competitive economy, and Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland were 3rd, 5th, 6th and 10th, respectively.

In the "Doing Business'' report, released by the World Bank, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden were ranked near the top as well. The United States was ranked N0. 2 on both lists.

http://nytimes.com/2004/10/14/business/14compete.html?pagewanted=all

Take that, Republicans!

[dogtag]

1. So, are they lying when they say that 'socialized' medicine

impoverishes a country? Oh, goodness. Happy, healthy people working hard in private enterprise, huh? Not demoralized slackers lolling about the hospitals corridors making up ailments? Surely you jest.

[pelagius]

2. Corporate America should be leading the charge...

...for universal access to healthcare. It's a huge burden on private corporations and expanding the risk pool by partnering with government is bound to reduce their costs.

Scandinavian countries have high taxes, but people actually get something for it. We Americans can do much better, if we resolve to do so.

[dogtag]

3. I was born and raised in Sweden and have gone back

many times to work there for an American corporation. Holey moley, people get a lot back for their taxes, unlike us. Scandinavians love to complain about high taxes, but change their tune when they hear what we actually pay and what we actually get in return. I ask if they would like to trade and the answer is NO.

[curiousgeorge]

4. Simple.... they don't have "W" as a president

A lot can be done when you don't have a moron running your country.