Ok. We Indians, got the motorcycle from the West, like so many other things (in return for our invention of ZERO (0), of course!). But why did we not import the habit of wearing the helmet? When was the last time a Hollywood movie depicted someone riding a two wheeler without helmet?
Also, we got cars. And even 6 laned highways. But not the habit of wearing seat belts, which according to many, are "inconvenient"?
When we imported electricity, we were "habitualized" to not mess with it, right? Did such an education not go into automobile safety?
Why do we need special laws now, to enforce helmet and seat-belt usage? Instead, why did we not make it a habit right from the beginning and avoid having to educate people with expensive laws, after so much damage has been done?
Even now, can we make automobile dealers to not deliver a vehicle without a high quality helmet? If the Government can enforce that a vehicle cannot ply without a number plate, why cannot the same Government enforce that a vehicle cannot be taken delivery without a helmet?
When our habits are at fault, it may not be right to blame the Government, but it can also be seen that these are huge oversights by whoever was in a position of power when the laws were made or not made (when they should have). And this, despite the advantage that India enjoys, of letting the West try things, make mistakes and tune it to perfection, before importing and enjoying them (aka being far behind in technological advancement :-)).
As an extension of this thought, what are some other "products" that one country has imported from another, but not necessarily the associated "habits", leading to a half boiled experience? List them in the comments. Lets discuss!
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