Reflections on Roadkill between Mobility Studies and Animal Studies: Altermobilities

Roadkill is a significant issue that needs to be brought to the forefront of mainstream scholarship and activism. This book argues that roadkill is a unique site from which to understand and contest the dominant social order and can help to uncover the hidden violence of contemporary human-centered systems of mobility and develop alternative modes of mobility for a renewed social life in common with our more-than-human kin.

Format: Hardback
Length: 98 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Roadkill is a persistent yet often overlooked aspect of modern life. However, the broader implications of the numerous social, ethical, and political issues surrounding roadkill have largely been neglected in mainstream scholarship and activism. This oversight persists even in domains such as mobility studies and animal studies, which would typically be expected to have a vested interest in the topic. This book seeks to elevate roadkill to the forefront of ongoing discussions among scholars and activists in these fields, with the aim of demonstrating that roadkill is a uniquely valuable site for understanding and challenging the workings of the dominant social order. It contends that a thorough examination of roadkill can aid in uncovering the hidden violence of contemporary human-centered systems of mobility and facilitate the development of alternative modes of mobility that align with our interdependence with other species.

The prevalence of roadkill serves as a stark reminder of the intricate web of human-nature interactions. While it may be perceived as a mere nuisance or an unfortunate consequence of our transportation systems, roadkill holds significant importance in unraveling the complexities of our relationship with the natural world. By examining the various aspects of roadkill, including its ecological, social, and cultural implications, we can gain a deeper understanding of the broader ecological and social systems that shape our lives.

One of the primary concerns associated with roadkill is the impact it has on wildlife populations. Roadkill incidents can result in the death or injury of countless animals, disrupting their natural habitats and disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems. This not only affects the survival of individual species but also has broader implications for the health and biodiversity of entire ecosystems. Moreover, roadkill can also serve as a vector for the transmission of diseases, particularly those that affect animals and humans.

Roadkill also raises important ethical and philosophical questions. Who is responsible for the death of these animals? How should we respond to roadkill incidents? These questions are particularly relevant in the context of human-centered systems of mobility, where the dominant modes of transportation prioritize speed, efficiency, and convenience over the well-being and survival of other species.

In response to these challenges, there have been efforts to develop alternative modes of mobility that are more environmentally sustainable and respectful of other species. One such approach is the promotion of public transportation, cycling, and walking, which can reduce the number of roadkill incidents and promote a more sustainable and equitable society. Additionally, there are initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of roadkill and to educate individuals about the ways in which they can contribute to its reduction.

Roadkill serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all life forms and the urgent need to address the complex social, ethical, and environmental issues that arise from our interactions with the natural world. By recognizing the significance of roadkill and taking proactive steps to address its implications, we can create a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031305771
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023