[simondotau]

After writing that post, I started drafting an edit to acknowledge that clever marketing is another way to encourage greater use of public transport. In my mind I imagined a campaign highlighting the time people get back not having to drive through heavy traffic. The advertisement could say, "Give yourself more time to do the things you love," accompanied by a wholesome image of a smiling person reading a book on the train.

Then it occurred to me that nobody would actually be reading a book. They would be doom-scrolling Instagram or watching wingnut political propaganda on YouTube. I'm starting to wonder if people might be mentally better off behind the wheel...

[pibaker]

Shortwave radio had a reputation for hosting political nut jobs before the internet existed. So are podcasts.

At least transit users don't get road rage.

[queenkjuul]

I may be doomscrolling on the train but i see plenty of other people read books

[nicbou]

That's the reason I prefer public transit. I normally bike everywhere, because I get to exercise, see the scenery and yell at people, but sometimes I like to just sit down and read a book.

Another benefit is being able to have a drink or go to multiple locations without worrying about bringing the car back somehow.