Some of them definitely are, but so too are an awful lot of Brits. It is important not to misinterpret the American view of the USA as the world's best place to live - this has much more to do with widespread ignorance of the rest of the world than it has to do with self-righteousness. On the other hand, the religious righteousness that is so prevalent there, while again being heavily influenced by low education within a generally poor education system, the reason is also the prevailing societal parameters. The average American is shockingly likely to at some stage have nowhere to turn for hope but in prayer because their society is arranged as a stage for the survival of the financially fittest - if you lose your job then you are truly in deep doodoo. Also, again because of the way American society generally leaves you on your own, belonging to a congregation counteracts the negativity - one of the first things people discuss on meeting a stranger is to which church/faith they belong. I am not saying that is any worse than having a pub as a pivotal point in life or always resorting to discussing the weather, but it simply is like that in the USA.