[cadence-]

Growing up in the 1990s, I remember noticing that most of money-making computer initiatives were usually started in the US (think Bill Gates starting Microsoft), which geeks in Europe were more about cool and artsy pursuits (think Amiga demo scene). I wonder if there is something here related to mindset on the two continents.

[vptr]

I think it's because despite the fact that the US is called the land of opportunity, the system is rigged against entrepreneurs (no social safety net) unlike EU where you can fuck around without a job for years. So, I think there is something about money making initiatives because you don't have time to mess around.

[ChuckNorris89]

>the system is rigged against entrepreneurs (no social safety net)

So then, why does the EU lag behind the US so much at successful startups even with our safety nets?

Or is it mostly due to the US VC funding system that pumps crazy amount of $$$ in tech companies plus having a giant homogenous market with a high purchasing power, all speaking the same language, that's lacking in the EU and in the end has nothing to do with social systems?

>unlike EU where you can fuck around without a job for years.

That's definitely not true. While there are a few people who have made a lifestyle from playing the system in order to live off unemployment their whole lives, that's a minority and not something you can easily voluntarily do.

For the most part, you can't just voluntarily choose not to work for years and still receive unemployment. They'll just cut off your welfare if you do that.

[samsolomon]

I am not sure I buy that argument—the US has been incredible for entrepreneurs for a long time.

You're right about the lack of a social safety net, but US entrepreneurs are succeeding despite that. Whether it is talent, funding, taxes or mindset something appears to be working.

[vagrantJin]

You may be on to something. Maybe because Europe is generally considered old money?