It's a bit of a contradiction to acknowledge that the US is the richest country in the world, then admonish it for not emulating the less rich countries

Why do you see this as a contradiction? You don’t think a rich country could ever have reason to emulate a poorer country? This could only be the case if nothing mattered besides richness.

I think this might be the source of the misunderstanding with your family.

They don't seem to realize that the least idealistic countries (lowest taxes, worker standards, environment regulations etc.) seems to get all of the business these days - regardless of whether this is optimal from a moral standpoint.

And you think the “moral standpoint” should always be sacrificed to the “business” standpoint?