On the terror of traffic lights and docile bodies; or, a monologue on jaywalking

It is late and you are alone. You’re somewhere public, walking along the street and you approach a crossroad. As you approach the curb you notice that the lights are red, and, even though you know that there is no one around, even though you know that there is no danger, you still hesitate.

Let us first consider the public sphere, and, in particular, the role of the individual; both their responsibility and rights, within it. The public sphere is a meeting place; of people and ideas; it is, therefore, inherently a place of sharing. One cannot enter the public sphere and be alone, for there are always reminders of others; from people to structures. When entering and operating within this space we are required to acknowledge laws and customs and then willingly sacrifice some freedoms in order to participate. Choosing not to adhere – which is always an option – leads to social exclusion, or, in the most drastic, incarceration and perhaps death.