Someone mentioned to me that they believe that even without religion or rule of law, people would behave themselves and not commit crimes... he emphasised on the inherent goodness of people which will make them see right and wrong... and stop any crimes....

I disagree.... if morality was such a pull why is it that we see so many atrocities committed only during riots when there is general lawlessness... or why do we see war crimes? why is it that people are subject to utmost brutality by some people when they have the power to get away with impunity? I think it was the Nuremberg trials which stated that people should listen to their own values while deciding their actions (the argument put across by several Nazi solidiers was that they were just following orders)....

but I believe, given a chance people would be ready to exploit. and be totally SELFISH.