PRESS RELEASE: Debunking the Scandinavian Socialism Myth: An Evaluation of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden

Published December 9, 2019

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL (December 9, 2019) – A new Policy Brief by Heartland Institute Research Fellow Chris Talgo and Editorial Director Justin Haskins, titled “Debunking the Scandinavian Socialism Myth: An Evaluation of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden,” provides an in-depth analysis of the economies of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, showing beyond any doubt that they are not nearly as socialistic as politicians such as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) claim they are.

Download the complete paper here.

The paper provides information on the following topics:

  1. Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are not socialist nations.

Despite the political rhetoric of American democratic socialists, the Scandinavian nations are far from being centrally planned, socialist nations. In reality, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden have free-market economies with minimal regulations and strong private property rights.

  1. Danes, Norwegians, and Swedes are not better off than most Americans.

Overwhelming data show the citizens of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden do not have higher living standards than most Americans. In general, Americans have higher per-capita-incomes, more discretionary spending power, and pay less for housing, transportation, and other necessary goods.

  1. Scandinavians have rejected many of the policies American democratic socialists regularly call for.

In recent decades, many Scandinavian countries have reduced welfare programs and initiated several new free-market reforms to improve their economic competitiveness. As democratic socialists have constantly called for more government intervention into the U.S. economy, the Scandinavian nations have done the complete opposite, including reducing government debt and heavy-handed regulations.

To schedule an interview with one of the authors, contact Media Specialist Billy Aouste at [email protected] or call 312/377-4000.