Quote:
Originally Posted by halfpint
Which country gives you the most "Freedom"
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Why hard to say which country gives the most "freedom" halfpint...
The one thing you can generally accept is that any "industrialized" country has forgotten the meaning of the word and those countries where there is a need to even discuss the subject have a problem with "freedom".
When any nation becomes over-governed, over-controlled and over-taxed - "freedom" has long gone. Another measure is make a mountain of all law books - the higher that mountain, the less freedom. People and others with an interest have already abused it to create these laws.
Assuming general standards where folks behave rationally and accept there are some things you can do and some you don't - there is no need for "laws". Abuse that "freedom" and laws will be introduced and enforced and "freedom" diminishes.
Places like the UK and generally other Euro countries are not free spirits by any measure. The US prob tops the league in lack of "freedoms" in often fairly basic ways.
Often developing countries have far more "freedoms" than "civilized world" (tho if they keep "developing", chances are freedom will go).
Where we are now is relatively good on "freedoms" tho doubt anywhere is perfect. There is a highly respected freedom in privacy issues (often above all else and to exceptional levels), the govt and law enforcement system is sure not oppressive, the justice system is *very* fussy when it comes to individual right to "freedoms" and more than fair. The obligations of citizens are very easy to comply with and little, if any, taxation etc. Others more noted have claimed the country is "the best example of democracy in action on the planet". Overall, this has a bearing on quality of lifestyle and it shows when you look at the population - they are much happier than in "civilized world".
If you want "freedom" - head for nations with simple and acceptable laws and where they recognize the rights of any individual - places where you'd never dream of calling an LE officer "sir"
In turn, it's up to individuals to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner and not abuse that freedom.