Civilized, yes. But I think if the USG tried to seize people's savings it wouldn't end well. I think there is a great deal more distrust of our govt here than there is generally in Europe and more of a widespread culture of "don't tread on me". The debt crisis would be worse than Greece by several fold.

Who knows what will happen on the future? Not I. Just think the Boy Scouts have it right: "Be prepared." Hopefully, you don't ever need to use your prep, but better to have and not need than need and not have Prepare for the worst and pray for the best