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My nighttime attitude is, anyone can run you down and get away with it. Why give some drunk the chance to plaster me against a car? That's why I don't even own a bike light, or one of those godawful reflective suits. Because if you've put yourself in a position where someone has to see you in order for you to be safe -- to see you, and to give a fuck -- you've already blown it.

Neal Stephenson#16

AttitudeRiskSafetySelf reliance

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author argues relying on others to notice you for safety is flawed because you cannot assume they will care.
In plain terms
You cannot rely on others to see you and care about your safety.
What can you take from it?
Self-reliance is safer than depending on strangers' awareness.

Where it applies

  • night riding
  • personal safety

Putting it to work

  • adapting safety strategies
  • reducing reliance on others

Questions to consider

  • When is self-reliance insufficient?
  • How do you balance safety and visibility?

Another view

Reflective gear does improve visibility even if strangers are indifferent.

More from Neal Stephenson

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  3. It's the ultimate Boston transportation. On land:all those slow cars get in the way. There's public transit - the T - but if you're in good shape, it's usually…

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