In a recent episode of "Interesting Times," columnist Ross Douthat and author Andrew Miller explore the cultural and psychological costs of surrendering the steering wheel to autonomous vehicles. For generations, learning to drive has been a quintessential American rite of passage—a symbol of freedom, independence, and the transition to adulthood. But as self-driving technology advances, that milestone may fade into history.
Miller argues that driving is more than just a utility; it's an embodied skill that demands attention, reflexes, and a connection to the physical world. "It's a kind of step into adulthood," he says, noting that the romance of the open road is deeply embedded in American culture. Yet, he acknowledges that the decline of manual driving is part of a broader trend: the "screenification" of American youth, where teens are more risk-averse and less likely to seek real-world experiences.
While self-driving cars promise safety and convenience, Miller warns against expecting them to solve deeper societal needs. "We need rites of passage. We need more opportunities to live in our bodies and learn embodied skills," he says. But he cautions against placing the burden of preserving these traditions on the automobile alone. The conversation raises a poignant question: If we give up driving, what else might we lose along the way?