I found this TED talk by Simon Anholt very thought provoking and worth serious consideration. http://www.ted.com/talks/simon_anholt_which_country_does_the_most_good_for_the_world#t-804598
His talk is about his attempt to determine the "goodest" country on earth, which he explains is distinct from and a more important measure than determining the "best" country on earth. What he means by that is which country contributes the most per ca pita to the overall well being of the entire world vs. selfishly striving mainly to enhance its own well being and that of its own citizens in preference to other countries.
This is further explained on the Good Country Index website here: http://www.goodcountry.org/ and their FAQ here: http://www.goodcountry.org/faq.
The actual index is found here: http://www.goodcountry.org/overall.
You may be surprised at what country ranks first and at U.S.A.s placement on that index.
The "Goodest" Country in the World
The "Goodest" Country in the World
No precept or claim is more likely to be false than one that can only be supported by invoking the claim of Divine authority for it--no matter who or what claims such authority.
“If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; but if you really make them think, they'll hate you.”
― Harlan Ellison
“If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; but if you really make them think, they'll hate you.”
― Harlan Ellison