Why is security more tight when entering U.S.A. than Europe?

Question

Why do European citizins get fingerprinted and photographed when entering U.S.A. but not the other way around. Anything can happen anywhere in the world and all people of all nations are of equal value? After all, the bombers in London were sadly "home grown".

Answer 1

Even before 9/11 US immigration was more tedious and bureaucratic than almost anywhere in the world. I wonder if its because much of the US is very far from any other country whereas Europeans are used to other countries being close by. After 9/11 the security services have been gripped by an even greater paranoid xenophobia than before which is in contrast to the very welcoming nature of many Americans that I have met.
The politicians want to show that they are protecting the "homeland".

Answer 2

Because the Americans like to take precautions and put (some of) their money to good use. Whilst places like Britain for instance hand it out to asilum seekers instead of putting it for increased security or for the NHS which is in shambles.

Answer 3

mmm i guess that you're right , but us is now having a lot of problems with terrorism and they are really afraid , about that , the same happens with mexican people , last month i traveled to dallas texas and they made me , wait around 40 min in migration desk and then , i had to take off my shoes , i mean they aRe ver afraid .. and i guess it should be the same with them , i mean they treat you like , a dog or something ,they ask you about the visa and passports , and for me that is like a big waste of time , and for me ' d be easier to travel europe i've never been buut they only ask you for passport and we can get the passport really fast i mean , in 3 days you get it , but the visa is like , a 4 hour wait , and then an american ask you about what do you do ? wat is your work and things like that , but its the way.. they feel secure in their country !!!

thanks !!

greetings from mexico !
mexico tierra de paisanos !