[LambdaAlmighty]

OP basically says people in Europe look at you weird for starting a business. Failing the business afterward is a social tragedy.

It's about social/peer pressure.

Having lived in many countries across Europe, I can attest. Some countries are worse than others of course (the worst being the ex-commie/socialist ones).

[watwut]

My experience was different. Failing the business is a social tragedy only if you took too much debt. If you simply find a job afterwards, then it is ok. At least among my friends.

[danmaz74]

This is my experience too.

[k-mcgrady]

I agree with that 100% but I don't think that has anything to do with a good social system.