For KNX 1070, this is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts. Why We Need Rules O ne of the legacies of the sixties is that it spawned an unhealthy disdain for rules. Thus, concepts like respect for law and authority, once thought of as virtues, are often held in low esteem. In a world that emphasizes the negative side of rules, obedience is rarely viewed as an admirable trait. The fact is that there are many stupid and arbitrary rules in this world that ought to be changed.
Rules establish the standards of behavior needed to create a just, humane and respectful society.
If we want people to curb some of their natural instincts toward self-interest, there are two major ways of modifying behavior. We can convince people through reason or coerce them through rules. When we instill positive values and make them part of character, the conscience is all that is needed to secure compliance. We don't need laws or cops. But we all know it's often essential to state and enforce rules of conduct to protect ourselves from those who either don't know or care about ethical standards.