American exceptionalism.(public opinion on government programs)

Although the war in Iraq has contributed to negative attitudes toward the United States, there are more fundamental differences between Western Europeans and Americans that are producing tensions. Americans are less enamored of government responses to problems than are Europeans, as the data below on retirement payments show. We're more optimistic than many people in Europe. The deep religious convictions of many Americans clearly rankle some Europeans, too.

 
Question: If you compare ...? 
Primary responsibility for supporting those who are retired 
 
                 Individuals themselves    Government programs 
 
United States                52%                   17% 
France                       19                    49 
Great Britain                39                    41 
Germany                      36                    47 
The Netherlands              45                    38 
 
Note: Survey was of people 30-65 years old. The responses above are 
for two separate questions. Responses "some responsibility" and "no 
responsibility" not shown. 
 
Source: Harris Interactive, May-June 2005. 
 
Note: Table made bar graph. 
 
Question: If you compare ...? 
 
                  Present ...