Ian D. answered • 07/02/21
NREMT, ASVAB, and Neurodiverse-aware Tutor
I will preface this with I am not an expert on Danish politics, economics, nor culture. However, You could look into the Danish economy as an example of capitalism infused with social-democratic norms.
Denmark's economy is rooted in capitalism, and does maintain robust trade agreements with many countries, both within the EU and outside. However, Danish citizens pay significantly more tax compared to individuals in the United States. This is a very simplistic view, but its one worth considering.
With this in mind, the theoretical Danish view of taxes is that every citizen enjoys the benefits of government services with less regard to socio-economic class. For example, child care, paternity/maternity leave, and education are all largely subsidized by tax dollars. Social norms make it so use of services are less respective of socio-economic status; the rich are just as likely (and entitled/welcomed to) to still take part in these services as the middle or lower classes would. In contrast, many view the US welfare system as just that; a system exclusively for the underprivileged or impoverished, and are consequently irregularly or ad hoc administered, with certain attached stigmas for their use.
A counter argument to this is that Denmark is a relatively homogenous country from a ethnic and socio-economic standpoint; it is an OECD nation after all. As a result, the ability to maintain the system is aided by a population capable of generating the GDP to support it and those who are entirely reliant on it (ex. the homeless, or refugees). This has become an issue in recent years with an influx of refugees from other regions who may not be as contributing to the overall economy. This also stands in contrast to cultural norms that perhaps take a dim view to these newcomers.
