No matter how much you try to educate people, when your political system survives by creating a massive welfare state it doesn't promote much of a desire to work hard. I personally think the massive wealth has hampered the intellectual development of the country, although I would admit it has also made a positive difference for those who were raised with the values of hard work and intelligent contribution to society. I just don't honestly feel that those people are in the majority at this point. :(

When I look at my own country, I would say the same thing. The increase in welfare has made us less productive and less likely to contribute positively to our communities.