[Griffinsauce]

I don't think that has anything to do with being in Europe or not.

The emotions and opinions exist in all workplaces. Some are just open to it and others not. The important part is being respectful and having empathy.

The second employee was arguing in obvious bad faith, that apparently being accepted (to the point of the first being fired) is what should make people uncomfortable.

[mercer]

I do feel that in the US, the workplace has a much stronger weight, and often plays a much bigger role in the employee's life. I can see how that could lead to either very explicit work/life separation, or a blurring of the two.

[togblops]

Agree completely on the important part being respect and empathy. Agree on the second employee’s tone seeming argumentative. However, from the given information it’s not clear if the original (fired) employee remained respectful.