Marshall McLuhan
The Quote in Other Words
Mass transit is bound to fail in North America as individuals can only find solitude and contemplate in their personal vehicles.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote highlights the importance of privacy and solitude in North American culture. The car has become a symbol of personal space and freedom, allowing individuals to escape the noise and chaos of the outside world. Mass transportation, on the other hand, is often crowded and noisy, leaving little room for personal reflection or contemplation.
However, this quote also raises questions about the role of community and social interaction in our lives. While the car may provide a sense of privacy, it also isolates us from the world around us. Mass transportation, on the other hand, offers opportunities for social interaction and connection with others.
Ultimately, the success or failure of mass transportation in North America may depend on our ability to balance the need for privacy with the need for community and social interaction. Perhaps we need to find new ways to create private spaces within public transportation, or to design transportation systems that prioritize both privacy and social connection.