Motor Vehicle Anarchism

DENVER- In the wake of the Venice Beach boardwalk tragedy this last weekend, a question is raised by many: “Is the need for Car Control long overdue?”  For years the national discussion has revolved around Gun Control.  However, in 2010 there were 32,885 motor vehicle deaths in the United States, three times the amount of fire-arm related homicides that same year.

Cyclist enthusiast A.K. Streeter from TreeHugger.com says that “Motorists bend and break laws systematically.”  Such sentiment has led to greater research and development into autonomous, or self-driving, cars.  These robotic cars would be able to sense its environment and navigate without erroneous or even emotional human input.  These robotic cars could also be fully electronic, drastically improving the air quality of inner cities.  Combine this technology with the efficient oversight and control of the DMV and DOT, peace and safety on the streets could very well become a reality.

Not all are in favor of an automated highway utopia, their extremism instead driving them to prefer chaos to order.  “I can’t stand all these pedestrians and bicyclists acting like they have the right of way,” says 28 year old Colorado resident John Knox.  The self-described “motor vehicle anarchist,” audaciously adds that “I admit I’ve nudged one or two [pedestrians and bicyclists] with my car.”  In response to the possibility of his car being replaced by a far safer self-driven car, Knox says, “Look, I know I am not a great driver, but it’s my right to drive.” 

Not all agree with the common misconception that driving is in fact a “right.”  Kathy Mullins of the progressive think tank The Nation Builders says, “…driving a car is a privilege…rights should be reserved for REAL rights like the right to clean air…”