其实这还是政府的诚信问题。

Most Americans actually believe in that US government is for the people by the people, even though the government screws things up from time to time. That is why the NSA didn't generate a big scandal like Water Gate. Americans believe that US government is indeed looking for terrorists and support what US government is doing. Most Americans I know are not afraid of terrorists' attack. Right after 911, my officemate had to travel by plane and I asked what he plan to do if there is another hijack. He replied " I'll fight back. There will be a couple of them, and there will  be more than 100 of us. We'll win."
 
I don't think Chinese share the same faith about Chinese government. And I am not sure how average Chinese citizen will response to terror attacks.