ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a sociologically oriented perspective on motor vehicle conceived as inherent component of modernity, medium of intangible values and social practices binding social, and political developments into concept of modern automobility. It focuses on Ulrich Beck’s sociological concept of “risk society” in order to show that industrial traditions of automobile folklore are challenged by safety issues as well as compulsive risk-reduction policies assuming leading political role in context of late modern societies. The automobility system has facilitated a number of sociocultural developments comprising increased separation of public and private spheres, a decrease in the number of roles undertaken by families, and further fragmentation of communities and families. The search for risk-reduction strategies that would restore balance between future hazards and present-day needs or necessities has motivated scholars and policy makers to construe policies based on the framework of sustainable transportation.
