

#619: What Driving Tells Us About Agency, Skill, and Freedom
18 snips Jun 15, 2020
Matthew Crawford, a philosopher and mechanic known for his works like "Shop Class as Soulcraft," dives into the philosophical implications of self-driving cars. He cautions against losing our agency and skill as we transition from drivers to passengers. Crawford highlights how driving embodies freedom, exploration, and mastery, while critiquing the safety-centric future of mobility. The discussion broadens to touch on the cultural significance of activities like hot rodding and how they relate to self-governance and human values.
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Dirt Bike Vindication
- Matthew Crawford, the author, recounts riding a dirt bike, pushing his limits, and experiencing a sense of vindication.
- Despite frequent injuries, he felt this risk was essential to feeling alive and human.
Movement and Humanity
- Moving freely in our environment is fundamental to being human, distinguishing us from inanimate objects.
- This active movement is crucial for childhood development and building a mental map of the world.
Manufactured Demand
- Despite surveys showing 70% of Americans enjoy driving, self-driving cars are pushed as the inevitable future.
- This top-down initiative, driven by tech companies, aims for a monopoly on mobility, not consumer demand.