> From what I understand, the US culture is one in which it is generally considered the fault of someone for being unable to pay for their own healthcare and living circumstances. Because there is the sentiment that it is possible to not be oppressed through one's personal power, cleverness, and considerate behavior, the people who claim to be oppressed are actually lazy, stupid, and inconsiderate.
That is not "US culture". Those are the beliefs of an unfortunately sizeable minority. Even then, it is generally only directed at "the other" and is really veiled racism. Do not take the rhetoric of certain political factions at face value or as a representation of "US culture".
I agree it's probably a minority who would put it in such harsh terms as the comment you're responding to, but the underlying sentiment is more a part of American culture than many other places.
For instance, the values of meritocracy and self-determination are deeply ingrained in the US mythos, beginning from "All men are created equal" and "the pursuit of happiness" in the declaration of independence.
Since moving to Europe, the difference in the concept of individual credit/responsibility is one of the largest cultural differences I have felt.
That is not "US culture". Those are the beliefs of an unfortunately sizeable minority. Even then, it is generally only directed at "the other" and is really veiled racism. Do not take the rhetoric of certain political factions at face value or as a representation of "US culture".