I met a friend for dinner today. She and her husband stopped by Copenhagen for a vacation and we had dinner together. During the meal, we talked about so many things that have been happening in our lives. Then we came to the topic of democracy and beliefs. Her husband is German and worked in Singapore for a period of time. He commented that the system in Singapore is very different in Europe, and it took his quite a bit to understand it.
The Europeans have a welfare system which takes care of their basic needs and everyone is more or less at about the same level. We are excluding the rich people here. Singaporeans on the other hand are in debt most of the time because they have to secure their own housing, education and so on. Hence, money becomes a very important component in their lives. Singaporeans are often very envious of their counterparts who own a car or live in a condominium. The Europeans, however, focus more on family and personal pursuits such as hobbies. They grow up in an environment which teaches them the importance of friendship and family.
Could it be an issue of choice? That the Singapore government has decided on inculcating the next generation with such ideas? Is it true meritocracy? When you need help, is the government there to help you? I wonder.... Is there anything wrong with our value system?
What is more important in life? What are your thoughts?
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