In fact, I'd argue that in many ways Singapore is a great example for the United States. Why? Here are a few reasons:
1. Singapore is a hardworking, disciplined country. It decides what it needs to do, and then does it. Every year for National Day, for example, the government publishes a list of challenges it needs to overcome. The list of challenges is enormously appealing in its clarity and directness.
2. Singapore is obsessed with education — not just for children, but throughout life. The country tops the ranks of educational achievement regularly. While it was once justifiably criticized for emphasizing rote learning, it has introduced programs that encourage creativity.
3. Singapore is a highly capitalist society, but its government plays a strong guiding role. The government creates industrial policy and actively facilitates growth and capability-building in those areas. It did a masterfuljob emphasizing IT and building up that industry, and now it's actively pushing biotech and services.
4. Like the US, Singapore is a highly diverse society, with lots of citizens with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Arab backgrounds. Yet they all seem to get along pretty well, and the country's culture is greatly enriched by the diversity.
5. Singapore invests heavily in infrastructure — housing, roads, IT, airport. short funny jokes. 83% of its citizens live in public housing, but it's clean and well-maintained. Buses and subways are clean and run on time.
6. Singapore's economy is doing pretty well. It does anticipate a decline in GDP of about 5% this year, but there are signs of a strong recovery. Its stock market is booming. Its banks didn't go crazy with subprime lending or bizarre derivatives
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