One way of understanding the drifting apart of Europe & North America on hours worked is that the Europeans have made a choice to work less (even if it means overall less economic activity);
Or, that in America, due to private health care & inequality, workers cannot afford to work less (even if they want to)...
or, you can take the view that European economies are in decline due to a loss of incentives (so taxes must be reduced?)
take your pick... but of course it may be all three
