Denmark for Comparative Politicians

Hi Everybody,

My niece in the US has asked me for help with a school project and I find it hard to say no. Maybe some of you Danes or others living in Denmark out there can help. It involves answering the following questions for a Comparative Political Science class.

Anyone can respond in the Comments section for this post. Just jot down some quick thoughts, single out one or two questions, respond to the whole in a paragraph or two ----or don't respond at all if you don't have the time or don't want to. That's completely O.K.Thanks in advance for your help!

/Kevin

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---And now, here are the questions and my answers:

>>How do you view the Danish government? Are you generally happy with your
>>government?

I believe the Danish government is best described (and think most Danes would agree) as a 'Social Democracy'.
Social as in socialism, which is to say that there is a comprehensive social welfare 'safety net', funded largely by income taxation, which provides services and financial assistance especially for, but not limited to, the weaker elements of society.

The largest of these include:

Pension for those retiring from workforce (age 65 and up)
Forced-early retirement pension (those unable to work)
Early retirement pension (eligible from age 62 to 65)
Many different sabbatical and hiatus programs (including f.x. 6 months leave at ca. 80% of salary for mothers after giving birth)
Student stipend (students enrolled in qualifying degree programs -fx. any college/university receive ca. $700/month before taxes, on top of free tuition)
Unemployment ($1344/month, $1776/month with a child)
Job-training programs

These things of course all cost money and are the reason the tax-burden is so high. On the other hand there is almost no poverty or homelessness.

Where the US is supposed to insure equal opportunity for all, the Danish system seems to strive for an equal outcome for all. High-income earners see less and less of their last earned income -often paying almost 63% of any income over ca. $50,000 in taxes.

"The broadest shoulders must bear the heaviest burden", as they say.


>>Do you think that the Danish monarchy is an important and influential part of
>>the Danish government?

While the queen still approves the democratically elected goverment and still signs all approved bills into law, these activities are generally pro-forma rubberstampings and the monarchy is very careful not even to voice political opinion.

The royal family is however generally much loved by the people and probably earn their keep as ambassadors for the nation both home and abroad.

>>What do you think of the socialist way of life?
I don't believe a majority of Danes would consider themselves politically socialists. There are at least 12 political parties in Denmark, spanning from true communists (2%) to right-wing conservatives (9%). In the ideological middle are 'Venstre' (which strangely means 'left' even tho' they are right of center) and the Social Democrats (left of center, like the US Democratic Party), who enjoy a following of about 30% each of the population.


>>Are there major things that should be changed?
Personally, I don't think that the current levels of service and assistance can be maintained in an increasingly global economy. The burden of taxation required makes businesses less profitable to run, and the incentive to work -the difference between your taxed wages as opposed to welfare - is too low.

>>What do you think would be the perfect type of government?
I wonder if anyone will try to answer this. I can't. Perfect and government almost contradict one another in the same sentence ;-)


>>If you can pinpoint a country that you feel has a good system, please name it
>>and maybe give me your reasoning.

USA - USA - USA !!!!
Capitalism must be tempered and prioritize human capital, but I believe that free markets most closely express and reflect human nature. Welfare and handouts degrade the receiver.

>>How do you view the United States' Government?

I find it frustrating that the political system currently in place makes it almost impossible to elect a politician qualified for service and worthy of office. That said, I believe there is a wealth of talented people working behind the front figures who do a good job. Further, the US Constitution, with its division of powers and system of checks and balances, is an amazing document.

>>What about general democracy?

Democracy, strangely enough, is probably still in its infancy. Great hope for the future should it be allowed to spread futher.


>>Finally, please indicate
>>1.) whether I may quote your comments anonymously in connection with my report,
>>2.) whether I may contact you with any questions
>>3.) and whether you would like to receive an email in conjunction with the conclusion of the project

1.) Yes
2.) Yes
3.) Yes

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That's it!!