How has the human race fallen so far?
I don't think it's a modern construct at all. Hell, going right back we used to be in 'packs', looking after ourselves and our kin before all else.
I probably wouldn't intervene if I saw a situation arising, like some on the show. Why? Because I'm female, 5'2, and pathetically weak. I would actually achieve nothing other than getting myself hurt.
There are a number of factors in play here: firstly, cost-benefit. If it looks like it's going to be less beneficial to you to intervene, why would you? Yes, it may make you a good person, but if you get a broken nose out of it, or you can stay out and ring the police/get the bartender over, wouldn't that be the safest - and most beneficial - thing?
Also, group diffusion. The more of you there are, the less likely it is anybody will act - the 'somebody else will do it' idea.
And not everybody is a good person. Some people will avoid situations that don't involve them.
I probably wouldn't intervene, simply because I wouldn't have a leg to stand on, should this situation arise - but then, I also wouldn't have the strength to stand there and do nothing.
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