Originally posted by: fiksi
Europe places stronger emphasis on family, benefits, health and wellbeing of society. Parents have time off to be with children, and overworked parents lead to children wandering around streets, early sex etc. (might explain some problems in US)
No wonder, i met Americans here in Europe... they say they like it here, and life is much better for them, for children. Quality isn't only $$$.
Interesting topic. not surprised to see it has dissolved into the standard "misread teh OP, bash Europe, US is still the greatest in every aspect of life, blind nationalism BS..." comments.
granted, some have been enlightening.
Bottom line, both systems have large positive and negative issues, many of which can cancel each other out. the trick is to finding what works out for you, which is the point of the OP.
Quoted from the OP what I find to be the most desirable aspect of living in certain european countries, and the fact that you will find europeans who prefer life in the US, for personal reasons.
I lived in Europe briefly (~ 6 months) on a student Visa--mostly Italy. At the same time, my brother was living in Switzerland on a work Visa. While I found (and still find) life in Europe to be more agreeable to me (free healthcare, free higher education in most countries--which few here want to mention for some reason...), I only hold that to a few countries. While Italy is a nice place to visit, I sure as sh1t wouldnt' want to live there. --Corruption, beaurocracy, and as in most places--it's
quality of healthcare, not access, that becomes the real problem.
I prefer the general european approach to life>work. (this doesn't make them lazy, or the quality of work to be worse...well, the Italians are pretty damn lazy
😉).
If I had to choose, I'd prefer to live in Switzerland or France. I would avoid Italy or any eastern european country. Overall, I sitll think it is hard to beat the US, but unless you're born into it, you do have to work a bit harder for success here (competition, which is a fine thing).
and for those who think the US is soo rich..ever here of Norway? This is a typical day at the social services offices, as recounted by a former employee
--Employee: what can I do for you today?
Karls: I am depressed. I feel taht it is affecting my quality of life and my ability to work
--Employee: And what can we do to improve your life?
Karls: I am depressed because I own a Saab. My neighbor owns a Mercedes and I feel that his life is better than mine. I can no tlive with myself knowing that my neighbor has a better car.
--Employee: we will provide you government assistence so that you can upgrade your vehicle. No citizen shoudl have to suffer..
...true account
now, I'm sure there are valid reasons many would not want to live in Norway. Point is, some countries have drastic advantages over others, and the reality is--if youre' the type that constantly feels you you would be happier in another country, you will never be happy with where you are. spending your time pointing out negatives reduces your ability to work within the current system and improve your situation.
