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!?