If Someone Invented the Car Today
Written and posted by Tadej Pirc. July, 2024.
Finding solutions often stays within the realm of the known and familiar, anchored by axioms that seem absolute and unchangeable. But what if the answers lie where we least expect them? In places we hesitate to explore, fearing they might upend our understanding of the world and the reality we’ve been born into and grown accustomed to. It’s not uncommon for those responsible for transport policies—politicians and experts alike—to repeat the same refrain: more cars require more roads. This approach, often tried and tested, consistently fails. Why do we never learn from this recurring mistake? It seems that our thinking about mobility is rooted more in cultural norms and values than in expert analysis or innovative, out-of-the-box thinking.
In “Movement”, Thalia Verkade and Marco te Brömmelstroet embark on a deep, philosophical exploration of how the ways we move through our cities reflect broader societal values. This book transcends the typical discussions of traffic and urban congestion, inviting readers to rethink the very foundations of our transportation systems and the ethical implications they carry.
A particularly provocative statement found on page 153 encapsulates the book’s critical stance: “If someone invented the car today, it would never be allowed on the roads.” This bold assertion underscores the authors’ central argument—that our current car-centric infrastructure is not only outdated but fundamentally flawed when viewed through the lens of safety, sustainability, and social equity.
Verkade and te Brömmelstroet contend that our cities, dominated by automobiles, have been shaped by values that prioritise speed, efficiency, and individual convenience at the expense of community, safety, and the common good. This, they argue, is not just a logistical problem but a moral one. The book challenges readers to consider how the dominance of cars has marginalised other forms of movement, particularly walking and cycling, and how this has impacted our social interactions and overall quality of life.
Drawing on social philosophy, “Movement” presents transportation as a reflection of societal priorities. It asks critical questions: Who benefits from our current systems? Who is excluded? And what kind of society are we building when we design cities that cater primarily to automobiles? The authors provide compelling evidence that the current state of our roads and cities is far from inevitable and that alternatives are not only possible but necessary.
Yet, the text is not merely theoretical. It is grounded in real-world examples of neighbourhoods that have successfully reimagined their transportation systems to prioritise people over cars. These case studies demonstrate that when cities embrace more inclusive and sustainable approaches to mobility, they become more liveable, equitable, and connected.
Ultimately, “Movement” is a powerful call to action. It urges urban planners, policymakers, and everyday citizens to rethink how we move through and between our cities and to advocate for a future where transportation serves the broader goals of community, sustainability, and human well-being.