Americans are shocked and terrified by the idea, I’m sure. “But they could be kidnaped.” That’s kind of a car thing. When cars dominate the world, there are fewer people walking and cycling. Streets are empty except for drivers. There are fewer eyes on the street. With fewer eyes, fewer people together, it becomes more dangerous for vulnerable people.
Jane Jacobs wrote about that in like the 1960s. It’s really infuriating how unsafe car-centered spaces is, and how people erroneously think it makes them safer.
You’re much safer on a street busy with a mixed crowd of pedestrians.
I’ve had the kidnapping conversation a few times and I’m still deeply confused by what pro-car people are even trying to say. In a walkable area you’re at greater risk of someone coming into physical contact with you, yes, but then what? Are they going to run down the street with you on their shoulder? Maybe two cyclists could carry you together on a line? If they’re dragging you into a building that’s begging to be caught. Meanwhile, in car land, someone can grab you from your front yard and be be off to parts unknown in seconds.
This article was good.
Jane Jacobs wrote about that in like the 1960s. It’s really infuriating how unsafe car-centered spaces is, and how people erroneously think it makes them safer.
You’re much safer on a street busy with a mixed crowd of pedestrians.
But, again, racism can’t have that.
I’ve had the kidnapping conversation a few times and I’m still deeply confused by what pro-car people are even trying to say. In a walkable area you’re at greater risk of someone coming into physical contact with you, yes, but then what? Are they going to run down the street with you on their shoulder? Maybe two cyclists could carry you together on a line? If they’re dragging you into a building that’s begging to be caught. Meanwhile, in car land, someone can grab you from your front yard and be be off to parts unknown in seconds.