“Socialism is based on government control” — as is capitalism. Without the controls over the economy in the uSA, there’d be big problems, such as the 2008 financial crash. If you are in a democracy, ideally, the government represents your wishes. At worst, the wishes of the majority. There are something like five countries with actual socialist regimes. Most of Europe, where I reside, are social democracies with capitalist economies.

I didn’t wish for anything. If you read what I wrote, the point is about the hypocrisy of people who talk about things being given to people who don’t deserve them, which their business was inherited and chose companies profit from taxpayer-funded infrastructure. In passing, I mentioned that I live in a country where no one goes broke from medical expenses or education. I’ve lived decades in the USA and in Europe, and at one point in my life, fortunately during

In the end, your comment, which I appreciate, actually proves that most people use the word “socialist” in a way that it is not defined. There are socialist parties in many countries, but the countries are fully capitalist. Americans confuse socialism with communism.

There are two ways in which I would be less “free” in America than I am here.

I am free to choose my doctor and receive care, regardless of any existing condition. National health insurance pays for the majority of medical costs and we have a supplementary private insurance for the rest. National health fees are paid for by both workers and employers, not unlike pensions. The control on pharmaceutical prices forces them to be affordable when mainstream. This benefits everyone. The entire society is less sick and depressed because of available treatment.

My children can go to college for very modest fees all the way to PhD. levels. In other words, anyone who qualifies for higher education can get it.