"Doug" wrote in message
...
On 13 Sep, 13:18, "mileburner" wrote:

Howsabout banning anyone from driving who has a BMI 25. That way it
would
dramatically reduce the probability of said driver having heart attack,
it
would mean all the fatties would be forced to walk a bit more and get
some
much needed exercise, and reduce the traffic at the same time

Big problems often have very simple solutions.

Although an attractive idea it would be perceived as discrimination.
Instead, a widespread reduction in car use could have several
beneficial effects. I am thinking along the lines of the use of
psychology to reduce wander-lust. Somehow remove the urge to move
about aimlessly in cars and planes.

A big part of the problem is not that people *want* to travel aimlessly (as
they might do by foot or cycle) but that people feel compelled that they
*have* to travel; to work, to shop, take kids to school etc. by car, and
firmly believe that there is no other option.

Many people have said to me that they would *love* to cycle to work but they
can't because [insert reason here] but most of the reasons could be overcome
if they really wanted to cycle. It might mean moving home, or changing work,
but it could be done *if* that is what they really wanted.

The fact of the matter is, people generally prefer the comfort and
convenience of sitting in their own car, than using other methods. Until
such a time where people have a very good motive to use alternative methods
(cost, health, time etc) they will continue to take the easier option. And
for most people, that is a car.