If Cars Could Walk: Postsocialist Streets in Transformation

The book "If Cars Could Walk" explores how car mobility has transformed street life in postsocialist cities, replacing socialist modes of mobility with a culture of privately owned cars. This reflects an evolving political and cultural imagination that shapes their current political reality.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 14 July 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The past quarter-century has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the urban landscape of postsocialist cities, driven by the unprecedented surge in car mobility. In contrast to the socialist era, where public transport, bicycles, and other forms of shared mobility dominated, the streetscape has been overtaken by a culture of privately owned cars. This shift has had a profound impact on the social fabric of these cities, altering the very nature of street interactions, vehicle usage, and the parameters governing speed, maneuverability, and cultural and symbolic values.

In her book, If Cars Could Walk, author Sarah Ahmed employs ethnographic case studies to meticulously document these sweeping changes. These studies provide a vivid portrayal of how the realities of people's movements have been reshaped, replacing public transport, bicycles, and other former "socialist modes of mobility" with privatized mobility. This transformation reflects an evolving political and cultural imagination, shaping the present political landscape of these cities.

One of the key observations made in the book is the way in which car mobility has facilitated the emergence of new forms of social segregation. Private cars offer a level of privacy and exclusivity that public transport and shared mobility cannot match. As a result, individuals who own cars are often able to access more desirable neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces, while those who rely on public transportation or alternative modes of mobility are often left behind, facing barriers to social mobility and economic opportunity.

Moreover, the increased reliance on cars has led to a significant increase in traffic congestion and pollution. The proliferation of cars on the roads has resulted in longer commute times, increased air pollution, and a strain on urban infrastructure. This has not only impacted the quality of life for residents but also has broader environmental consequences, contributing to climate change and other ecological challenges.

In response to these challenges, there have been efforts to promote alternative modes of mobility, such as public transport, bicycles, and walking. However, these efforts have faced significant resistance from private car owners and the automotive industry, who argue that their interests are best served by promoting privatized mobility. This has led to a political battle over the future of urban transportation, with proponents of alternative modes of mobility advocating for policies that prioritize public health, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

Despite these challenges, there are also signs of hope and resilience in the face of the car mobility crisis. Many cities around the world are implementing policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable mobility, such as congestion pricing, bike-sharing programs, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. These efforts are aimed at reducing the reliance on cars, improving air quality, and creating more livable and inclusive cities.

In conclusion, the explosive rise of car mobility has transformed street life in postsocialist cities, reshaping the social fabric and creating new forms of social segregation. While private cars offer convenience and privacy, they have also led to traffic congestion, pollution, and environmental degradation. In response, there is a growing movement advocating for alternative modes of mobility, such as public transport, bicycles, and walking, as well as policies that promote sustainable and equitable urban transportation. The future of urban mobility will depend on how we balance the needs of individual mobility with the broader social and environmental concerns of our cities.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805390312