[ek_hornbeck]

And all of the above countries have a much lower child mortality rate than decades ago, more women pursuing education and careers (even in some of the more prosperous Muslim countries), and a workforce that no longer relies on using children as helpers/apprentices.

[MinorityRepublican]

Right. My theory is nanny state/generous welfare benefits.

You pointed out women in universities and careers. Even Islamic counties in the Gulf are doing that.

Hmm.