Dr. Aaron Jay says traffic lights must go. Despite controversy, the traffic psychologist maintains lights are unsafe; despoil the environment; prevent the individual from realizing his full potential. And these problems can be solved.
He asserts this form of traffic control stimulates aggression when drivers rush to make a green or yellow light; while being required to stop by a red light plants seeds of frustration. “These emotions are harmful. Anger and frustration add up to one thing, road rage.” says the doctor, who teaches at the University of Wyoming.
Dr Jay argues intersections are places of death and destruction. Ever since traffic lights were installed, Dr Jay points out “Over the years there have been more fatalities than the Spanish – American and Civil Wars; World War I and II combined.”
Critics respond that a stop light offers the opportunity to relax or take care of personal affairs like singing; or googling; or chatting and gaming with friends using one’s iPhone.
The professor says the traffic light is representative of even deeper psychological and sociological problems.
People are not able to use their own good judgment. “The present day traffic paradigm is a symbol of disenfranchisement. Drivers conform to a system rather than the system conforming to them; it doesn’t allow people to use their own decision-making skills. “The lights stunt personal growth.” he says.
It’s also harmful to the environment. With a bit of disdain Dr. Jay opines, “These traffic lights are a time waster. Stopping at a light means more time, more gas. Greenhouse emissions go up.”
What’s Dr Jay’s solution?
Replace the traffic light system with “Road consciousness.” Think of a skateboard park, the skaters execute jumps, traverse railings, skate backwards without restriction. Each skater is aware of those around him. There’s a natural flow of movement.
No automated traffic management system is needed says the psychologist. He envisions the same for cars, a new era of civility on our roads. Drivers will be naturally aware and give the right of way to each other. In Dr Jay’s world, “Drivers see others as human not as some inanimate obstruction.”
He also argues unlighted intersections are safer for blind people if they are provided proper orientation. Results from field tests have been mixed.
Critics counter stop lights allow people to attend to personal appearance and hygiene. Drivers, men and women alike, can spruce their hair, apply make-up and pick their nose.
The conflicts between Dr Jay and his critics are existential. Are we better off being part of a collective enterprise, as the doctor purports; or does each of us live a fuller life by tending to their own needs? In other words, is it better to look good than drive good.
Note ripped from the headlines, totally made-up
