This is a good criticism, allow me to answer your questions to my best of knowledge. 1) Greece was not always a deadbeat. a) misuse of money over many years (k

This is a good criticism, allow me to answer your questions to my best of knowledge. 1) Greece was not always a deadbeat. a) misuse of money over many years (kleptocracy) b) lack of competitive advantage after merging economy with stronger countries (eg. Germany) and c) a large influx of cash from stronger countries that eased productivity and entrepreneurship is also to blame. Imagine if US slashed "bullshit jobs" tomorrow what effect this would have to consumerism and GDP in comparison. Austerity measures in Greece basically stagnated cash flow to the economy which like US is mostly service sector - based. 2) Structural reforms are far behind due to the Kleptocrats' influence till today. Clean slate, dealing with kleptocracy and a growth plan would do a lot to reverse this 3) Sensible management and right investments could mean no such fate for Greece. Gourmet-quality agricultural products and food processing, tourism by exploitation of natural beauty and rich history, and a strong shipping industry and tradition could help this country move forward. Mining also has some potential but I am not sure if it can account for a big chunk of the new economy.