I think the more you leave behind capitalistic pursuits and opt for something more human, the better a life you live.
Unfortunately, the world seems more keen on the paraphernalia, and not the real thing.
Another interesting write-up, David.
Of the five countries you have listed, I haven't been to three of them, but have lived (and worked) in the US and France for a bit, and I can assure you when it comes to the work-life balance I prefer the latter, even though it is witnessing a societal change at the moment.
The Mediterranean and Scandinavia would be the world's best regions to live in if there were no politicians.