we get taught it, over 5 years in school. and very intensive. Thing is compassion is very big in germany. The welfare system, the health care system, etc all has their basis in it. Just tell germans they have to do something out of compassion, and they will do it. The refugees for example. Tell them there is a virus that kills the elderly and they have to give up their freedoms (and wrap it up a bit more subtle like "infection Protection act" and they will go with it.