Chapter 11

Chapter 11: In Motion: Transportation and Knowledge in Sao Paulo

Thesis:

            The class system through transportation in Sao Paulo.

Summary:

            This chapter was about social class and the difference of resources that are available passed the “better” part of Sao Paulo. People who travelled by train or bus can actually see the difference of each neighborhood which is described in the reading. The author interviews Robson on page 162 and it explains the difference of riding the bus compared to the train. Robson also explained when going to certain places he rather take the bus than the train. As soon as Robson moved from the extreme east side he quickly identified himself from Tatuape simply because it was a better neighborhood and it makes someone feel like there are at a higher position then where they were before. The class system and how people live or where they live is pretty clear because where they are located. If the people of Sao Paulo don’t make  a positive impact on other people then they’re considered to take up space.

Personal Reflection:

            My personal opinion on this chapter is that I think the same issues of Sao Paulo are all over the world. Here in New York people go through the same thing. There’s a lot of judgment on people’s actions, the neighborhood they come from and to the kind of money they make.

            Transportation is a normal and easy way of getting around New York City. Taking the train is normal to the poor and middle class. I personally rather have a car of my own because some people are insane when taking public transportation.