Why do people in Europe work less per week than American's?

Question

Why do people in Europe work less per week than American's? This article says that factory workers at VW in Germany now work 33 hours per week, up from the previous 28 hours/week. When I was in highschool I worked at least 25 hours a week while attending school. My mother works at a steel plant here in Ohio and works just under 60 hours/week. Why don't europeans work as much, but at the same time, they are better at saving money than americans?


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060929/ap_on_bi_ge/germany_volkswagen

Answer 1

It has to do with productivity, wise spending, and the realistic need for people to have time for family and time away from work.
I don't believe America has a realistic standard for their companies and employees.
What a bummer for us!!!!

Answer 2

I am from Europa,e so is my husband.
The answer is more, higher education and more constructive, more productive work.
We are living in US, my husband can't believe it how much stupid time is wasted for cheat-chats, coffee breaks, cigarettes breakes, etc.
AND most of all, there is no appropriate supervision.
Believe me, most Americans couldn't work elsewhere. They are way to anti-social, comfortable, lazy, and want too many things NOW!!!!

Answer 3

Europeans are more cultured than we Americans. They eat better food too. But they also walk around naked more so I don't trust them. They may work less, but we work harder.

Answer 4

Hm, I thought that was just the French.
Swiss standard workweek is 42.5 hours but we make way more than you ever will. Plus more holidays!