How Car Dependency Shapes Our Social Lives
Introduction
In all people, there exists an innate desire to connect with neighbors and strengthen social bonds in welcoming environments that feel like a “home away from home.” These spaces, where people feel comfortable and at ease, often serve as great equalizers, encouraging spontaneous interaction without significant financial barriers.
This fundamental need for connection has become increasingly apparent in modern times, as many individuals find themselves yearning for meaningful interactions outside the confines of their homes and workplaces. This longing has inspired a renewed interest in the concept of the third place—a social environment distinct from home (the "first place") and the workplace (the "second place"). Sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced this term in his 1989 book, The Great Good Place, highlighting the importance of third places in fostering civil society, democracy, civic engagement, and a sense of belonging.
Throughout history, third places have been central to community life, taking forms such as churches, plazas, and markets—spaces where people socialized, exchanged ideas, and conducted business. These gathering spots embodied cultural norms and shaped a community’s identity and shared history.
In modern times, third places include cafes, bars, libraries, parks, barber shops, and other social hubs where people relax, connect, and build relationships. Despite our fast-paced, hyperconnected society, these spaces remain vital for fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening social bonds.
The Loneliness Epidemic
However, as third places have become less accessible, loneliness and isolation have risen as major societal issues. Many individuals feel disconnected, realizing that their routines outside of home and work lack spontaneity and meaningful interaction.
This growing loneliness represents a significant shift in how we connect with one another. According to a recent survey, half of all Americans report feeling lonely, while in the United Kingdom, 40% of individuals say their primary source of companionship is a pet or television.
Why does this matter? Loneliness isn’t just an emotional struggle—it’s a public health crisis. Chronic loneliness is linked to an increased risk of sleep disorders, substance abuse, and depression, and can even shorten life expectancy by up to 15 years. Surprisingly, the highest rates of loneliness are reported among younger generations, particularly Generation Z and Millennials.
This paradox raises an important question: why are younger generations, in a hyperconnected society just a “like” away, feeling lonelier than ever? Technology bears some responsibility. Tools like video conferencing, social media, and online gaming have made virtual connections easier but have reduced face-to-face interactions. As a result, people are less inclined to visit third places like parks, libraries, and cafes. Despite the conveniences technology provides, it has inadvertently contributed to an epidemic of isolation and loneliness.
While technology often takes the blame, the reality is far more complex. The decline of third places cannot be blamed on technology alone. Factors such as polarization, institutional distrust, and suburban sprawl have also played significant roles. Suburban sprawl, in particular, has fundamentally reshaped the American landscape in ways that hinder connection and foster isolation.
The Impact of Suburban Sprawl
Sprawl refers to the spread of low-density, car-dependent development that separates housing, workplaces, and amenities into distinct zones. This growth, often fueled by debt-financed infrastructure projects, initially promises economic expansion but frequently leaves municipalities financially insolvent. The cost of maintaining sprawling roads, utilities, and services often outpaces the revenue they generate, leaving communities struggling under the weight of unsustainable development. These inefficiencies are essentially socialized onto people, in the form of higher taxes and greater car dependency.
The reliance on cars, particularly given their high maintenance costs, is a quiet killer and often not factored into people’s calculus when self evaluating the reasons for their lack of prospects. To illustrate the financial burden of car dependency, consider a personal example. My estimated monthly vehicle-related expenses break down as follows:
Car payment: $305/month ($3660/year)
Car insurance: $150/month ($1,800/year)
Gas: ~$90/month ($1,080/year)
Car wash: $35/month ($420/year)
Maintenance: ~ $125/month (~ $1,500/year)
Total: ~$700/month ($8,400/year)
The Need For A Lower Time Preference
In contrast, walking has historically been the primary mode of transportation for humanity. And for good reasons. Walking fosters exploration and discovery, offers a natural and accessible form of exercise, nurtures a sense of community and belonging, and, most importantly, is completely free. This low-cost mode of travel promotes what is known as a low time preference—the ability to value long-term benefits over immediate gratification. Unlike driving, walking encourages individuals to slow down, observe their surroundings, and engage more deeply with their environment and the people in it. This mindset is essential for meaningful social interactions, as it cultivates patience, attentiveness, and a willingness to invest in relationships and community ties.
Beyond its financial strain, suburban sprawl also undermines our instinctive need to survey and understand our environment. Wide roads and high-speed traffic make streets unsafe for pedestrians, causing an adverse effect and further encouraging isolation. People’s inability to take account of their surroundings and interact with the people that occupy it inevitably results in feelings of paranoia and distrust in a community.
This is embodied in the cultural shift away from allowing children to walk freely without parental oversight. Once considered a normal part of childhood, independent exploration has been curtailed by the design of modern neighborhoods. Streets that were once vibrant with children playing and neighbors chatting have been replaced by empty sidewalks and the hum of passing vehicles.
Final Thought
In conclusion, the decline of third places and the rise in feelings of loneliness in modern society are deeply intertwined with the changes in how we live, work, and connect. Suburban sprawl and car dependency have both played significant roles in reducing opportunities for face-to-face interactions and community engagement. As loneliness continues to be a pressing issue, it’s clear that we must reconsider the design of our communities and the ways in which we engage with one another. Revitalizing third places, encouraging walkable environments, and fostering spaces where spontaneous interactions can occur are essential steps toward rebuilding the social fabric and reconnecting individuals in a meaningful way. Only by prioritizing these connections can we hope to counter the growing sense of isolation and restore the bonds that are crucial for both personal and collective well-being.
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