An example that I can relate to is the classic MGB sports car - in 1974 they changed from having chrome bumpers to rubber bumpers with a higher ride height in the name of safety. This was done, not because Leyland had sprouted a conscience, but because US safety regulations required of it, and the regulations came about because the people were demanding safer cars, even if it completely destroyed the car both from a handling and performance perspective and arguably led to its, as well as MG's downfall.
Doesn't this assume that governments are keepers of the peoples' conscience? Actually since our government already considers itself a keeper of our morality, financial good sense, self righteous nationalism etc, maybe conscience is not such a big step. -gabin -- Measure with a micrometer. Mark with a chalk. Cut with an axe!
