Is The Self-driving Car Un-American?

Great read from Robert Moor on What Happens to American Myth When You Take the Driver Out of It? I think the question is actually a whole lot more universal than just applying to Americans but it's undeniable that so much of our suburban sprawl and cultural identity can be wrapped up in the automobile.

On the whole, the future of self-driving cars seems alarmingly close and the impact that it will have doesn't seem fully comprehended by the general public - i.e. no more truck driver as job, tons more night time traffic for shipping, more personal screen time, no Adulthood accomplishment at 16, etc. etc. I love the idea of a more efficient system but I lament the loss of something as simple as driving around aimlessly if I so choose. Maybe I'm part of the problem? I certainly wouldn't rally against the Self-Driving Future but I am fascinated by the enormous significance it will have on our culture.