- Complacency in adherence to rules leads to costly consequences
- Such attitudes are ingrained and visible in everyday life
- There is a need for collective responsibility and political will
- Rule enforcement is often hindered by societal attitudes and political reluctance
- There is an opportunity to adapt and improve, given the right circumstances
For decades, a casual disregard for rules has been woven into the fabric of society, resulting in severe repercussions, Kathimerini reports. Instances like the train crash in Tempe and the recent amusement park accident highlight this issue. This neglect is evident in everyday settings, from city sidewalks transformed into motorcycle lanes to the disorderly scene on ferries. Despite previous strides in areas such as smoking regulations, efforts are now slipping.
Such lax attitudes are deeply entrenched and prevalent. The reaction of many who visited their hometowns to celebrate the Dormition of the Virgin in August is telling. They were taken aback by the sight of lambs being roasted in town squares, defying a ban imposed due to a goat plague, even in the presence of local leaders. Some might dismiss this as minor until a wider crisis ensues.
The Roots of Indifference
Pinpointing the exact cause of this deep-seated complacency is challenging. A certain indifference to rule enforcement plays a role, often amplified by misguided expressions of solidarity when officials attempt to implement regulations. Phrases like “Leave the kid alone” or “Shame for imposing fines” exemplify this mindset.
Politicians and officials, wary of becoming unpopular, often shy away from strict enforcement. Sometimes, they simply lack the expertise to execute their duties effectively. However, clear and firm regulations influence behavior; Greece’s orderly environments, such as its international airport, demonstrate that adaptation is possible. What is crucial now is the collective determination to stop ignoring rule violations.
In a revealing anecdote described by a Northern European who lived in Greece, his family once parked illegally on a sidewalk, relying on hazard lights to avoid penalties. This once unimaginable behaviour exemplified how quickly complacency can spread. These attitudes are not only harmful but contagious.
