Why do the Scandinavian countries have high taxes?

The Scandinavian countries (particularly Sweden) have extremely high taxes mainly because they have extensive cradle-to-grave social welfare systems. Unemployed? No problem - - we will give you money. Sick? No problem - - we will provide you with whatever health care you need. This is very expensive. The costs are exacerbated by an aging population and low birthrates, meaning that relatively few members of the active workforce are responsible for paying for the welfare of each retired person.