The War on Cars

EPISODE 102: CONSPIRACY!

Added 2023-03-21 10:02:00 +0000 UTC

Hello Patreon supporters!

Many of you are probably aware of the recent controversies and conspiracies surrounding "15-minute cities," a mundane urban planning concept that's become the latest grist for the culture-war mill.

Something that we probably all see as desirable — the ability to safely and conveniently access schools, parks, stores and other basic amenities by walking, cycling or public transit — has been seized upon by bad-faith actors to stoke fear and division with tall tales about global elites who want to trap ordinary citizens in their homes and force them to, as one popular conspiracy theory puts it, "own nothing and be happy." How did this happen?

For our new episode, we decided to not only explain the basic facts behind 15-minute cities, but also wanted to dissect the roots of some of the wild theories that have sprung up about them. Where's the line between fact and fiction? How does this affect cities and individuals who want to make streets safer and address congestion and climate change? The 15-minute-city concept and other plans to limit automobiles and promote livability aren't beyond criticism, so is there any way to bring the discussion back to reality?

The one goes deep.

Thanks so much for your support,

- Aaron, Sarah and Doug

PS We have a special offer for anyone who will be in or can get to Amsterdam this spring. Attend Micromobility Europe in Amsterdam on June 8-9, 2023, the largest conference focused on light EVs, e-bikes and the future of mobility, livable urban areas, and a more sustainable world. Join micromobility’s top global brands, builders, investors, and thinkers for an immersive, in-person event in one of the world's best cities for car-free living. Friends of The War on Cars receive 20% off tickets to the conference.

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