I wasn't up to answering to VK's generalizations of the American work ethic although I can agree and still partially disagree with his premise.

American's are loathe to work for anything below a true living wage, especially when you can secure shelter and eat regularly in comparative comfort on the entitlement dole. I wouldn't have gotten out of bed for minimum wage. What for?

I worked as a blue collar laborer my entire adult life, and I worked for a living wage enabling me to support my family and meet their needs and live with dignity. The jobs like I had are fast disappearing. Being replaced with jobs which pay less and couple with higher deductions and added health care costs.

Why bang your head against the wall for little reward when the government will take care of you indefinitely if you decide not to.