I keep hearing this but what does it mean to be 'behind'? Behind what? What actual innovation are we seeing from Silicon Valley that is improving life for humans? The EU has its faults but at least it's willing to take on big corporations. What does Google 'create' these days - other than vast swathes of ad data to sell people? How is AirBnB even a tech company or Uber? There's too much rent-seeking, gamifying, and destructive real world effects of lack of regulation that even some can help people. We've been through this before with industrialization in the modern world - some benefits, many of which go to a small percentage of people; many detriments, which harm all (such as pollution).

Also, 'tech investment' is such BS these days. Infinite venture capital (or at least in ZIRP days) that has led to little real 'innovation', just more BS gamified adtech. And now the US is ripping down any realistic science R&D. It's Europe's moment to take the reins or lose the opportunity. You don't Softbank or some blood-stained oil money from UAE to do that.

Behind in the opinion of some chronically online tech power user.

Your high tech is behind the tech of 10 generations from now. Just as meaningless a comparison.

It’s unfortunate so many so poorly understand the ramifications of physics.

Ah, one of billions. Belief this opinion of yours is relevant in any way is cute in “the child is clearly an idiot” kind of way.