(Book chapter) Egalitarianism on wheels
While egalitarianism is out of favor in today’s society the bicycle can be a vehicle (pun intended) hereof. All cyclists need to pedal. The humble bicycle allows us to interact primarily as Humans, not as one Ford versus one Mercedes. Cyclists move about at a remarkably unimpeded pace on an uncovered contraption that amazingly weighs a mere fraction of the rider. Only the cyclist her or himself must take credit for or bemoan the actual progress of the ride, not some automotive engineer in Detroit or Stuttgart.
Rain falls on cyclists’ faces, pedestrians ignore their chiming bells, dogs chase them, mud splashes on to their shoes, drivers hurl invectives, and bicycle helmets flatten hairdos — without regard to individual protestation, merit, wealth, position or presumption.
Cyclists are mostly denied the reckless glamor of talking on cell phones and sipping coffee while under way, while some valiantly persist. Cyclists have to seek excitement elsewhere instead of chasing around the block for a parking spot. Cyclists have no primary business at gas stations but may always stop off for a newspaper. They may not impress drivers full of themselves behind an expensive wheel but if such drivers knew what they are missing out on cyclists would inspire envy and awe.
The bicycle is safer, seriously, than the car. If you have any doubts in this regard ask yourself whether you would rather be run over by a bicycle or by a car.
Cycling is quite benign to the environment. No fumes, no pollution and no engine roar. No fuel other than what the cyclist ingests. No overseas military entanglement is required to secure a steady supply of toast, orange juice, potatoes etc — although in the light of recent events we may no longer assume that such a campaign could not be propaganized.
Cyclists acknowledge each other as they pass. Are they cowering together oppressed by the Car Driving Class? No, cyclists often ride with a smile (albeit an inward one). They smile as they share a world of well being, peace of mind, quiet excitement, and happiness.
Anything else? Well, Einstein said that his Theory of Relativity occurred to him while out cycling.
edited 01/16/18 0930