The Formation of Automobile Dependence in the United States An Actor Network Approach
Date of Award
2004
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Brain, David
Keywords
Automobile Dependence, Actor Network Theory, Transportation
Area of Concentration
Sociology
Abstract
The automobile and its attendant system occupy a central position in both individual and collective American life. Ordinary Americans have come to depend upon the automobile for most of their transportation needs. Consequently, the means for operating and maintaining this system rests with various levels of government (city, state, federal). Everyone, however, must contend with the consequent problems of widespread automotive travel, such as air quality issues, parking concerns, and social equity. This thesis examines certain key elements in the formation of the current American transportation system: the rapid rise and fall of transit in the early twentieth century, the development of the automobile industry, and the evolution of American highway policy through 1956. The methodological framework of actor network theory is used to inform the discussion. Finally, the rise of city and regional planning and the advent of zoning as a means to effectively organize the urban landscape will be considered as they relate to the implementation and reproduction of this transportation method.
Recommended Citation
Kreig, Alexandre, "The Formation of Automobile Dependence in the United States An Actor Network Approach" (2004). Theses & ETDs. 3408.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3408
Rights
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