Yes, that's a common and reasonably accurate characterization, though nuanced:
Why it's somewhat accurate:
- Wealth Building in America:
- Typically has higher salaries, lower taxes, and more entrepreneurial opportunities.
- More flexible labor markets, venture capital availability, and a culture that often rewards risk-taking.
- Greater upward mobility, especially in technology and finance sectors.
- Enjoying Wealth in Europe:
- Usually offers better work-life balance, shorter workweeks, and generous vacation policies.
- Stronger social safety nets and public services (healthcare, education, public transportation).
- Rich cultural heritage, diverse travel opportunities, and quality-of-life factors generally seen as better (e.g., urban planning, public spaces, cuisine, historical sites).
Nuances and Counterarguments:
- Europe can also provide strong wealth-building opportunities (particularly Northern and Western Europe) but often with higher taxation and regulation.
- America does have plenty of luxury amenities and places to enjoy wealth, but social pressures and work culture sometimes encourage continuous pursuit of more wealth, making "enjoyment" less prioritized.
- Wealth accumulation heavily depends on sector, personal values, specific location, and lifestyle preferences, so individual experiences may differ significantly.
In short, the statement captures broad sentiment and some genuine differences, but exceptions and subtleties do exist.