Book Review: Transport in Capitalism: Transport Policy as Social Policy

Oliver Schwedes, Transport in Capitalism: Transport Policy as Social Policy, Bielefeld: transcript Verlag, 2023; 234 pp.; ISBN: 978-3-8376-6451-5, €35.00 (pbk).

Oliver Schwedes’s Transport in Capitalism: Transport Policy as Social Policy offers a thought-provoking examination of the complex relationship between transportation systems and capitalist economies. In this book, Schwedes positions transport not as a standalone technical or logistical domain but as a vital social policy instrument that reflects and reinforces the dynamics of modern capitalist societies.

The author begins by presenting transport as more than just a means of physical mobility. He argues that it is deeply embedded in the capitalist mode of production, serving as a critical subsystem that enables economic growth while often exacerbating social inequalities. Schwedes explores how key aspects of capitalism – such as division of labour, competition, growth and alienation – are tightly linked to the evolution of transport systems. These systems, he claims, are not only shaped by economic forces but also help to sustain the broader capitalist framework.

A particularly compelling theme in the book is Schwedes’s critique of integrated transport policies. While these policies are widely promoted as solutions for achieving sustainability and inclusivity, the author reveals their inherent contradictions. He argues that such policies often fail to resolve the tensions between social, ecological and economic objectives. Instead, they tend to reinforce market-driven priorities, masking deeper systemic conflicts under the guise of consensus and progress. Through a series of well-researched case studies, primarily focusing on Germany and Europe, Schwedes illustrates how these policies frequently fall short of their stated goals, perpetuating environmental harm and social inequities.

The strength of Schwedes’s work lies in its interdisciplinary approach. Drawing from sociology, economics and political science, he provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of transport in capitalist societies. His historical perspective adds depth to the narrative, tracing the evolution of transport policy from its early days to its current manifestations. The book’s case studies further enrich the discussion, offering concrete examples of the challenges faced by policymakers in balancing competing priorities.

However, the book is not without its limitations. Schwedes’s analysis is highly theoretical, making the text dense and potentially challenging for readers unfamiliar with academic discourse. Moreover, the geographical focus on Europe, while detailed and insightful, limits the global relevance of some of the arguments. Readers from other regions may find it difficult to apply the insights directly to their contexts.

Despite these challenges, Transport in Capitalism is an insightful and important contribution to the discourse on transport and social policy. It challenges conventional thinking about the role of transport, urging readers to view it as a mechanism of social and economic power rather than merely a tool for mobility. For those willing to engage with its rigorous arguments, the book offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of transport, policy and capitalism, making it a valuable resource for scholars and policymakers alike.

Acknowledgments

I would like to sincerely thank the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, Lembaga Pengelola Dana Pendidikan, for providing funds for my master’s programme.

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