Driving the Future: How Rethinking Our Relationship with Cars Can Lead to a Sustainable Tomorrow
"Exploring the material rhetoric of mobility and technology for a more persuasive and eco-friendly transportation future."
We live in an age defined by movement. Cars have become more than just vehicles; they're extensions of our identities and reflections of our desires. But have we ever stopped to consider the subtle ways our cars persuade us? How the materials, design, and technology woven into their very fabric shape our perceptions and behaviors?
Ehren Helmut Pflugfelder, in his book 'Communicating Mobility and Technology: A Material Rhetoric for Persuasive Transportation,' argues that to truly grasp the persuasive power of transportation – particularly automobiles – we must acknowledge our own role in shaping the narratives that define how we see the world. Mobility, he posits, is inherently rhetorical. We are influenced not only by the tangible aspects of cars but also by the intricate web of connections involving other people and things.
This isn't just about finding new energy sources; it’s about understanding the theoretical framework of how mobility persuades humans. By diving deep into the material rhetoric of transportation, we can uncover new possibilities for creating a more sustainable and human-centered approach to the future of driving.
The Kinesthetic Rhetoric of Cars: It's All About the Movement
Pflugfelder introduces the concept of “kinesthetic rhetoric,” drawing inspiration from Aristotle and Latour. Kinesthetic rhetoric describes 'persuasive movement'. Beyond simply getting from point A to point B, our cars engage us in a constant dance of persuasion. Each interaction, each sensation, shapes our experience and reinforces our connection to the vehicle.
- The feel of the steering wheel in your hands, offering a sense of control and connection.
- The sound of the engine, providing a reassuring hum or a thrilling roar.
- The sensation of acceleration, triggering a rush of excitement and freedom.
- The overall design of the car, communicating status, style, and personality.
Driving Change Through Understanding
Pflugfelder’s work offers a valuable framework for understanding the complex relationship between humans and automobiles. By acknowledging the persuasive influence of materiality and embracing the power of kinesthetic rhetoric, we can pave the way for innovative transportation solutions that are both sustainable and human-centered. It’s time to shift gears and drive towards a future where our vehicles not only get us from place to place, but also inspire us to create a better world.