- In 1948, Costa Rica did away with their ejército, their army, and devoted the resulting surplus budget to social programs.
- As a result, education and peace are intimately connected. The government has funded education extensively to the result of a 97% literacy rate — only 2 percent lower than the U.S., and higher than many countries with comparable demographics.
- A universal health care program was also implemented, and as a result, people live on average two years longer in Costa Rica than in the U.S.: women on average to be 81.
- I didn't learn this in class, but according to the Happy Planet Index — a series of factors compiled to measure average overall quality of life as it relates to sustainability of heath and happiness, instead of just money — ranks Costa Rica #1 in the world.
- If that sounds bogus, Forbes rates CR #6 in happiness — the highest in the Americas.
I know most of you who are reading this probably don't have accounts, but I would love to hear your opinions on why this is, whether on this blog or later in real life!
I really have no clue why this would be, on account of I have never been to Costa Rica.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I wonder if they do not stress as much as Americans, and other countries, do about jobs and money. I think the "American dream" has been one of the biggest mistakes this country makes; we strive for the next best thing, in technology and employment and everything, when we should first stop to appreciate what we already have. (And I will admit, I certainly do not do this myself. I am constantly wanting the new, cool phone.)
Anyway, I am beginning to enter full rant mode here.
Costa Rica sounds lovely, and your adventures fun. I am taking Spanish next semester and hopefully someday I will be able to visit Costa Rica. :)