Torn

[Martin Cassini]

Next week I'm planning a bit of filming and updating of the video, The Case against Traffic Lights, for a council meeting in 10 days' time. One of the things I might try is crossing the road with a radio mic on so I can do a walking commentary. I'm sure that if drivers only had to worry about watching the road and other road-users, things would be fine. When they saw someone trying to cross, they would slow down or wave them on. But they are torn, between a system of control telling their heads to do one thing, and years of social upbringing telling their hearts to do another. The traffic control system sets up intolerable conflicts. It nurtures a "Get out of my way!" mindset, and discourages, even outlaws "After you!" fellow feeling. It makes us act against our better nature and better judgement. It makes us obey a set of rules which are alien to our nature.