Worth reading one by one down the list to get a feel for this theory (and it's flaws): http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=utility+theory+of+money&btnG=Google+Search nitro
The big difference between a family and socialism is that it's not a criminal offence to leave a family and head out on your own.
They have their defense figured out too. Second, basic education is not a matter of tax rate. Americans pay more money for education per child than any other country in the world. It is still fucked up. Thank you Teacher's union for so much caring for American kids. Higher education is much better in the U.S.. Regarding social perks in Europe why people do not understand that it is about to end? If it doesn't and you want to see what happens, check GDP of Germany and Ireland from 35 years ago and now. Regarding health issues, Europeans take advantage of "medical tourism" just like Americans. Doesn't it tell you something?