The War on Cars How Cars Change Us with Tara Goddard
12 snips
Dec 17, 2024 Tara Goddard, an associate professor at Texas A&M University, focuses on equitable transportation systems and safe roadway design. In the discussion, she explores why people drive aggressively and how societal views around cars are shaped. The conversation delves into the term 'motonomativity,' the racial biases in driver behavior towards pedestrians, and the media's passive language that minimizes accountability in traffic incidents. Tara underscores the need for a cultural shift in how we think about streets and who they serve.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Motonormativity and Car Brain
- People excuse public health problems caused by cars more than similar problems not involving cars.
- This "car brain" phenomenon was demonstrated through a study replicating earlier research.
Smoking vs. Idling
- Most people agree that smoking around others is unacceptable.
- Yet, many idle their cars at school pickups, exposing children to exhaust fumes.
Cars as Extensions of Self
- Cars hold a unique status beyond mere belongings; they represent lifelines and identity.
- This explains why car theft evokes a stronger reaction than the loss of other possessions.
