Impact of Modern Transport on Industrialized Countries

Introduction

The movement from the bicycle to modern forms of transport has been both a boon and an impediment. The positive elements of transportation developments over the years have more than adequately made up for the negative aspects. This position is slowly being undermined, however, by the increase in gasoline consumption, which raises both economic and environmental concerns. Additionally, the severe traffic congestion that occurs in some urban centers diminishes the travel experience. Despite these irritants, the overwhelming conclusion is that modern transport has improved the lives of most citizens and has reshaped the world into a smaller and more vibrant community.

Expanding Travel and the Tourist Industry

The most obvious change that accompanied the advent of modern forms of transport was the ability to travel extensively. Prior to the introduction of these modes of transportation, travel was both arduous and at times hazardous. The danger was compounded by the duration of the journey and the means available. With the widespread use of personal motor vehicles and the introduction of mass transit, travel as a recreational experience became available to far more people. Trains allowed the movement of large numbers of people over vast distances in a safe manner. The personal car gave families and individuals the opportunity to explore their country. Airplanes made both national and international travel a positive and accessible option.

This increase in travel meant that places previously only read about could now be visited and enjoyed. The world shrank. Travel that once took months could be accomplished in a few hours. Life became faster and more intense. It should be noted, however, that while much of the travel experience is considered positive, Siddall (1987) observes that the progression from primitive forms of travel to more modern forms has reduced the depth of the travel experience. Specifically, we have lost the ability to truly savor the journey itself. Modern travelers are focused on reaching a destination and give insufficient attention to the process of getting there. The intangible elements of travel — and meaningful interaction with the environment along the way — have been forfeited as a result.

Another benefit of modern transport has been the development of the contemporary tourist industry. The tourist industries of many island nations in the Caribbean, for example, would not exist without modern transport. These nations depend heavily on visitors from Europe and North America — a flow of travelers made possible directly by airplanes and luxury cruise liners. The Caribbean is not the only beneficiary of this arrangement. Within the United States, tourism is similarly dependent on modern transport: during winter months, large numbers of people travel to Florida to escape colder climates. The tourist industry, in short, could not exist in its current form without modern modes of transportation.

Economic Benefits and Social Consequences

The economic benefits of modern transport are numerous, the most significant being the efficiency gains companies achieve through improved logistics. Much of this efficiency derives from the ability to produce better economies of scale. Larger quantities of goods can be moved more quickly, generating enormous savings for companies, much of which can be reinvested into the economy. The net effect is increased productivity across the entire economy. The ability to move goods and services rapidly therefore influences a country's gross domestic product (GDP), making the country more prosperous and raising the standard of living for its citizens.

A downside to this economic progress is the production of conspicuous consumption. Vehicles have become social indicators of wealth and class. Individuals who wish to demonstrate affluence — or to appear wealthy — pursue luxury vehicles, sometimes expending limited resources on these symbols of power and prestige. Accompanying this demonstration effect is an illicit trade in vehicle parts and services. The criminal underside of society is thus revealed; illegal elements benefit from modern transport in unconventional and harmful ways.