I read about Mondragon in Pickety's works. That's why I went to Mondragon. I was deeply disappointed, the city and the surroundings look very sad. It reminded me a lot of the former DDR (german "democratic" republic which was under russian control).
Basque people have a distinct culture. You can often figure out someone comes from there just based on their hairstyle, way of dressing or attitude. They will usually favor practicality and durability over style.
You may think it is sad, they may just think it is the way it should be done and that's it. I don't think you can judge the coop concept based on the impression you got from the city. Its inhabitants may on average feel happier than those where you live.
It's located in Spain, a country not known for its vast wealth. Plus, it's in a special administrative region in Spain, the Basque Country. They enjoy subsidies and favorable treatment from the regional government.
I'm from Spain, so I'm quite sure of what I'm talking about. Spain might be a highly developed country, but its gdp per capita is not too high compared to the likes of Germany, UK, France, Denmark, US, et al.
Basque country is, again, rich because it has an special tax treatment and could be considered a tax heaven to some extent.
The Basque Country has a GDP (PPP) of 108 [1]. Higher than France (101), as an average, or Italy (97).
I'd say its a well developed region comparable to Northern Italy. Both were badly hit by the Euro. Had they kept their own currencies, they'd be closer to Sweden or Southern Germany.
Indeed. All they got was inflation. Just like our government flooding the country with printed money. Same cause, same effect It's not a mystery what causes inflation, and inflation does not result in prosperity.
