Is Canada more free than the United States? (home, bankruptcy)
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I'd say it really depends on what your priorities are.
I personally believe that the US offers greater economic freedom and Canada offers greater personal freedom.
By economic freedom I'm referring to the cost and choice of goods and the lower taxation structure. Due to lower cost of living and similar income levels, it is simply easier to acquire the idea of the "American Dream" in the US through home ownership, material possessions and family size.
I would argue that Canada offers just as many opportunities for entrepreneurship in most sectors. As a business owner, I am very content operating in Canada - and do not feel my business or opportunity is limited by any means. However Canadians in general tend to think smaller than Americans which can limit the growth potential of a business - and give the impression that opportunity does not exist here. In reality, risk taking and ambition is not as lauded in our country as it is in the US - but it can be equally rewarding for those who choose to pursue it. The only exceptions where entrepreneurial endeavors in Canada are more limited are certain sectors that are more regulated in Canada such as healthcare, telecommunications etc.
When it comes to personal freedoms - some Americans will argue the issue of gun rights make them "more free". This may be true to a degree - but most Canadians wouldn't feel compelled to own a firearm whether or not we had the right to do so. That gives me a greater sense of freedom.
Also, Canada has more liberal laws with alcohol and marijuana possession if that's your thing.
Also the police state that exists post 9/11 and the antagonistic attitude of government and law enforcement provide an environment that I wouldn't feel very free in personally.
Also some regions in the US have not adopted tolerance as a practice. I feel plenty free as a WASP male, but how many gays, minorities etc would feel "free" in any of this locales?
Also the US offers greater freedom in location. The US offers every climate zone on the planet and dozens of fantastic cities where one could choose to make home - so there is something for everyone. Canada has a small number of desirable destinations - all with terrible climates as well. Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary etc are all fine cities - but weather isn't a reason to live in any of them.
Bottom line is that in either country as long as you're not breaking the law - you're free to get out of bed everyday, be who you want to be, do what you want to do - and will experience the appropriate consequences or rewards depending on your choice of activities. That is what freedom is.
Liberated brought up priorities and I think that's absolutely correct. The US is very good at protecting their constitutional rights - and on these issues, I would rate the US higher.
However, in regards to anything beyond very basic rights, I would argue in favour of Canada. As has been mentioned, Canadian society is generally more socially liberal (though there are areas of exception and overlap, of course) and economically free.
I think it's more free in terms of lifestyle choices and is more "live and let live". It certainly feels less free-markety though.
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