I think this is an Amwrican thing. I live in Copenhagen, and have never owned a car. Neither have many of my friends, and it isn't a problem. There are probably a few reasons for this

- Many European cities don't have the American version of suburbs that basically require you yo have a car. Homes and businesses are generallly more intertwined and have sprung up over the ages around a town center.

- Public transportation is a lot better. In the rush hour it's often quicker to use public transportation than a car. A bike is the fastest.

- It's socially accepted. As mentioned many people don't even have cars, and it's not because of a lack of money.