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I don't like the word dignity for this. I think a clearer term would be priority.

We want to encourage people to be pedestrians so pedestrians should have priority over cars. In some countries, pressing a walk button actually triggers the stoplight to cycle to yellow then red for cars. Why not implement that more frequently? Also favor putting cars/roadways through tunnels rather than pedestrians. Surface can be nice parks.



Priority is a ceiling which can shift; see the history of public transit in LA, before car companies destroyed it.

Dignity is a floor; it is very difficult to lower a floor.


What don't you like about the word dignity in this context?


It is imprecise and unmeasurable.

Do intersections that implement pedestrian scramble somehow increase dignity? I don't know.

They do increase pedestrian safety and pretty clearly give pedestrians priority over vehicles via the exclusive use of the intersection for awhile.


I think you'd be hard pressed to argue improving safety does NOT improve dignity, but I see your point.


I'd argue that. To many having to wear a motorcycle helmet or even a seatbelt is less dignified. As is road workers having to wear a reflective yellow vest.

Dignity is weird, some people consider school and other uniforms dignified, many others consider them an affront to free-expression and for them being forced to wear it is an affront to dignity.

If the goal is max dignity, perhaps pedestrian crossings should simply play here comes the chief or long live the king as you cross.




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