Beautiful point, McGrath! That is the crux of the matter. Most people are inclined to be cooperative and law-abiding most of the time, regardless of the existing apparatus of the state or the law...or the lack thereof.

It's a few bad apples who spoil the barrel and make everyone's life somewhat insecure...just as in school it's a few bullies who make life miserable for a lot of other people.

In recent days, I have heard numerous Iraqui witnesses to the looting who said that it is about 5% of the population who are responsible for most of the looting and violence. That is typical.

- LH