This explains a few things. Ben Gurion was a an enthusiastic believer in Leninism. Not surprisingly, Ben-Gurion's Israel is a place where people have no personal responsibility, even when the central government which is supposed to assume responsibilty is incompetent, uncaring or corrupt. So-called Israeli "leaders" as well as Israeli citizens reject personal responsibility in everything from driving on the roadways to paying taxes.

Here is an odd example of how the lack of personal responsibility works, in practice. Upper-class Israelis and wannabes have seen that wealthy people in other societies have dogs. So dog-ownership in Israel is a major trend (except among Chareidim and Arabs). However, picking up after one's dog is not considered something that dog owners here should take responsibility for. It is seen, instead, as a responsibility of the state. The result is that the fanciest neighborhoods in Tel Aviv and elsewhere are COVERED in dog droppings. Really, truly! When I walk there, I usually walk in the street, which is much cleaner. This also makes walking in Chareidi neighborhoods just a bit more pleasant...
Jake in Jerusalem | 05.24.08 - 5:23 pm | #