The Jewish People are very aware of the idea of being responsibile to society and the world. Jews have given charity in far greater proportion than others. Look at the United Jewish Appeal.
Social consciousness is a mitzvah, a legal obligation.
When you see a human being in distress, you have an obligation to help him. In Judaism, however, you can't stand by, you must act. Being a good person requires us to take action, not just avoid evil. You're either part of the problem or part of the solution. The message that Judaism teaches is that you are responsible for the world.