I've visited Norway 4 times so far, it's my turn to visit by many times over. UK & Bikeless of course can tell you more, my impression is they are pretty open-minded there about many things.

Children "out of wedlock" for example no big deal there, if the parents are happy and the kid is happy it's fine, no pressure.

I saw virtualy no homeless in Trondheim, it's not that there's no poverty but Bikeless explained to me in a country where temps drop to minus double digits you really need shelter for all.

And of course, quality medical care is free.

Norway's not as diverse as we are, that's why I like it here, especially in the Bay Area. Not just that there's a faaaaabulous Gay community, everyone comes here .... and brings their foods.

Race and class maybe another issue in Norway, I recall a long while back that Bikeless had issues with anti-Semitism with a coleague. It got bad enough that she left the dept (nothing was going to be done about the bigot).

and they do bike there, there's a ride from Trondheim to Oslo called "The great test of strength" an be done in two days although pro's do it in one, entirely self supported.