Canadian Socialism

From: Marc J. Victor

Sent: Saturday, September 19, 2020 4:41 PM

To: Walter Block <[email protected]>

Subject: Question

Hi Walter.

I was talking to a doctor friend of mine today who comes from Canada.  He is one of the people reviewing my book.  His position is that the libertarian/3LP position has nothing to offer to Canadians (and possibly Australians/New Zealanders/ Europeans).  He thinks the average Canadian enjoys a social welfare state that provides more freedom and a better standard of living for Canadians than we can offer them. He claims Canadians enjoy good healthcare, schools, a peaceful society and a good economy.  Indeed, it seems Canada is ranked pretty favorably as a free country despite its social welfare state.

I was wondering if you had any thoughts on this issue?

Thanks!

From: Walter Block <[email protected]>

Sent: Saturday, September 19, 2020 4:54 PM

To: ‘Marc J. Victor’

Subject: RE: Question

Dear Marc:

Yes, Canada is doing well in many ways. Part of the explanation is homogeneity of the population: very few members of high crime groups. Another is that its military budget is very small. It depends upon the US in that regard.

But the biggest criticism I have of your Canadian friend is the direction of causation: is Canada relatively prosperous because of its greater degree of socialism or in spite of that fact. I adhere to the latter; he, to the former, which his greatly mistaken in my view.

Best regards,

Walter

The Best of Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr.