Does a 'stronger economy' mean 'more cars on the road'?
 

I noticed that I do not feel good, as I am supposed to, when I hear that the economical results are improving and the economy gets stronger.

As many of us, especially those living in urban areas, know - the cities are turning into large garages with many consequent environmental troubles.

The obstacle to a better economy is the expensive oil. It is $29 per barrel now. Couple of years ago it was only $14. But for some reason, maybe instinctively, I want that it does not become cheaper.

I realize that a "weak economy" means layoffs for many people and resulting sad troubles. One day I may become one of them.

On the other hand I do not wish even more motorized traffic either. Because I would not like to live in a damaged environment.

Am I alone thinking like this? Am I a sort of a "strange fruit"? Or is it normal to not wish a "stronger economy"?

While a stronger economy can boost automobile sales and thus production, this can also be said for bicycles. Most people only think about buying a bike when they have some disposable income. Likewise, a strong economy means there's more money circulating. Some of that money goes to keeping the cycling industry alive... some of it goes into the repairs for our roads and the construction of our trails... the maintenance and oversight of our forests. And if the auto industry receives an influx of revenue, that can be used to research new avenues of technology such as cleaner running vehicles. All in all, given the choice between a strong and weak economy, I'd prefer a strong one. I think it's not a question of strong vs. weak economy. It's a question of smart vs. dumb direction. If society can be made to see the value of cycling, the environment and safety of the individual over the "rights" of the automobile then a stronger economy can only be a benefit. The problem is that people are too much in love with their cars. They believe it is the only path to "freedom". I don't think this attitude will change during a bad economy. The more we tie our social and economic indicators to our ability to drive a car the deeper we lock ourselves into this catch-22. Once we start thinking about an improved economical benefit in terms of other things, we will have begun to eliminate our dependency and the result will be a greater focus on the things that truly benefit our lives.

I don't think it will make any difference. Most of the population will happily sell their own children into slavery if it means they can drive their cars. I think if the economy goes into recession, people will just cut their spending in other areas.

Alexey was remarking about the perils to the environment brought about by an improving economy.

This sounds like the start of another potentially unending thread that Alexey has started.

I'm outta here !!!