Socialism <> State Run
This points up something that seems to be overlooked when Americans dismiss European-style social-welfare systems: they are not necessarily state-run or state-financed. Rather, these societies have chosen to combine the various entities that play a role in social well-being — individuals, corporations, government, nongovernmental entities like unions and churches — in different ways, in an effort to balance individual freedom and overall social security.
but, but, but, but…(head exploding) that’s not what we were told! ahhhhhhhhh. CHURCHES!!!!???? How in God’s name is that possible! That would mean..gasp….that they have to care about the poor and act all christian like. Jesus H. Christ, what is wrong with these Europeans!?
I thought Europe was supposed to be hell on earth? Do you mean people actually get what they pay for? What a concept!
Terrific piece, squishi! We Americans have little understanding of how “quasi-socialism” works; this article clears up some of our ignorance. We would do well to learn from this, the Dutch approach, to see what may be applicable in our own culture!
Traveling through Germany I was hospitalized. The Hospital was modern and very well equipped from what I could see. I received the best care including cat scans. When I left they would not give me bill even though I told them that I would be reimbursed upon my return to the US.
Did you also know :
State universities (still) don’t charge tuition fees from ALL STUDENTS, foreign and German alike. There is a small administrative fee that changes from one State to another (Germany is a federal republic and there are 16 states).
I would love some of that “socialism” here