“I don’t get the title.
Sweden is one of the most socialist countries in Europe.”
- True and not true.
Sweden has HIGH TAXES, yes, but the present Conservative government is continously reducing them tax even though it’s nothing like a shock treatment to the system.
Furthermore, the overall attitude to Capitalism is more intelligent and friendly than in most parts of Europe. The income tax and sale tax is high, but corporate taxes are NOT. This is very important for attracting investments.
Also, Swedes in general have given up the traditional European idea of strikes as a solution to achive higher wages and most of them are aware their private economic situation primarily depends on the health of the Swedish business sector, not the Government.
At least, the dismantling of Socialism has begun in Sweden. Hopefully, that is what will happen in countries in Germany, France and Italy too.
Part of the difference is that Sweden doesn't nail corporations with these huge taxes like we do here in the States. We like to call ourselves capitalists here, but our levels of corporate taxation are some of the highest in the world.
It's something that frankly needs attending to, but it's not going to be popular with the lugheads in the general populace, especially the liberal screamos. You wonder why companies go overseas? Well... It's one of the reasons I think we need a true business execuitve in the White House and not just another politician.
Corporate Taxation Levels:
Hungary .....18%
Ireland .....24%
Switzerland ..... 24.9%
Norway ...... 28%
Sweden ..... 28%
UK ..... 30%
Korea ..... 30.8%
Australia ..... 34%
Netherlands ..... 35%
Italy ..... 37%
France ..... 37.8%
USA ..... 39.4%
Canada ..... 44%
Germany ..... 52%
And really, how many people do you think are going to read/respond to this thread? Most people don't give a rip until they get a chance to complain about how the economy is working, and then they don't ever even stop to question why.