patrick.net

Coming back from Europe, I have realized that America still has hope. In fact, I believe we will be in good shape if we tread carefully. We are actually quite fortunate:

• Homes are comparatively affordable in this country
• Most people are not condemned to public transportation here
• Tax rate is relatively low for moderate-income families on this side of the pond

Homes in Paris and London are still hopelessly expensive for most families. Even with high prices, many homes lack basic necessities such as air-conditioning or multiple bathrooms.

Why would someone choose to be stranded with rowdy youths or drunkards every day in subway trains?

Most European countries think that social engineering is the answer to all problems. I think they are absolutely wrong, unless they think frequent strikes are part of the productivity miracle. With sky-high tax rates, are than reasons (other than escalation of commitment) why productive people still want to stay there?

(Of course, there are exceptions. For example, Switzerland is still clean, efficient, and beautiful. Incidentally, it has some of the best tax policies in Europe.)

Anyway, it is nice to know that we will do fine.

- Peter P