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I think #2 is the most valid and compelling reason for a host of reasons. The other thing that is in the article that shouldn't be dismissed the homogeneity of the population. That goes a long way toward making #1 possible as it's easier to empathize across a smaller population.

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Plenty of US states have small populations, no? Also lots of states are comparatively homogeneous (Sweden has 19% of population as recent immigrants).

Sure, so those comparisons are actually more apt! You rarely if ever see them made however.

Georgia, Michigan, NC and NJ are the closest in size but that's about where it ends. Michigan probably has the closest demographic homogeneity. However the existence of the federal government as well as natural resources as a economic base throws a wrench into any further comparisons.

> natural resources as a economic base

True for Norway, but not any other country in the neighborhood (fine, Scotland I guess)

Homogeneity isn't one of the main points though. The article barely touches on it -- mentioned in one sentence, almost as an afterthought.

Also, as some other commenters point out, their homogeneity isn't on a different scale from places that aren't topping the charts.

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