Even the best U.S. dream jobs often lack the basic rights and protections standard in Germany. The combination of legal guarantees, social security, and a culture that protects rest and private life makes German jobs more attractive for many. In the U.S., deeply ingrained narratives and a media landscape hostile to unions ensure workers settle for less—often without realizing what is possible..
Why U.S. Dream Jobs Don’t Compare to German Standards (And How U.S. Propaganda Keeps It That Way) Fundamental Differences in Work Standards
German labor standards guarantee rights that are often missing in even the most coveted U.S. "dream jobs." In Germany, paid vacation, parental leave, job protection, and co-determination through works councils are legally mandated and standard for all workers. In the U.S., there is no legal requirement for paid vacation—on average, employees get 10–14 days per year, and about one-third receive none at all. Paid parental leave is usually employer-dependent and rare, whereas in Germany parents can take up to 14 months of state-supported parental leave together.
Job Security and Worker Participation
German employees enjoy strong protection against dismissal and support from works councils that ensure labor laws are followed. In the U.S., the "at-will employment" principle means employees can be fired at any time without cause, creating significant insecurity. Union membership is also declining in the U.S., weakening workers’ bargaining power.
Work-Life Balance and Quality of Life
German work culture emphasizes clear boundaries between work and private life. Overtime and constant availability are uncommon, and vacations are respected. In the U.S., an "always-on" mentality prevails, with blurred boundaries and a culture of overwork. Additionally, many Germans commute by bike or public transport, improving daily quality of life.
Social Security and Cost of Living
Although U.S. salaries may appear higher, this is offset by high costs for healthcare, housing, and education. Germany’s public systems and strong tenant protections provide better security, improving net quality of life.
How U.S. Propaganda Maintains Lower Standards Cultural Narratives and Ideologies
The U.S. is deeply rooted in a "bootstraps" mentality: everyone is responsible for their own success, and social safety nets are often stigmatized as weakness or "socialism." These narratives are reinforced by media, politics, and education, leading many Americans to accept lower labor standards as normal and stigmatize demands for better conditions.
Media Bias and Anti-Union Sentiment
U.S. media rarely portray labor struggles or unions positively. Strikes are depicted as disruptive or unreasonable, while corporate interests dominate coverage. The history of the labor movement and its achievements is seldom taught, weakening awareness of possible improvements.
“News coverage provides little affirmation for working people. It’s routine for employers to receive much more respectful treatment than employees do.”
Lack of Role Models and Fear of Change
Fear of "socialism" and emphasis on individual responsibility prevent U.S. workers from looking to European standards or collectively pushing for improvements. The successes of the German model are rarely discussed, despite showing that economic success and strong worker rights can coexist.
Sachs’ Vision ist ein souveränes, selbstbewusstes Europa, das nicht länger „unter amerikanischer Supervision“ steht, sondern seine Zukunft aktiv und eigenständig gestaltet
Sachs' vision is a sovereign, self-confident Europe that no longer stands "under American supervision," but actively and independently shapes its own future.
.. Anthony Scaramucci participated on May 10, 2025, in the FT Weekend Festival US in Washington D.C. during a panel titled “Myths and Monsters: The Anthropology of Modern America,” moderated by Financial Times columnist Gillian Tett. He discussed the influential myths and cultural narratives shaping today’s US political landscape, focusing on political identity, polarization, and populism.
Scaramucci openly reflected on his brief tenure as White House communications director under Donald Trump, calling it “the biggest mistake of my life.” He analyzed the dynamics of self-promotion and political rhetoric in the Trump era and how these contribute to division and change in American politics.
The festival featured a diverse program with other prominent speakers and cultural events. Sessions, including Scaramucci’s, are available on demand until August 10, 2025.