Recently, Peter Duniho posted:

"Neil Gould" wrote in message
m...
I disagree that all safety improvements *must* ultimately come from
improving the technology. Behavioral change can also improve safety.
Stop such ridiculous practices as giving people the opportunity to
have a dozen DUI convictions, and safety will improve. Stop the
ridiculous practice of permitting ever more distractions while
driving, such as cell phones, DVD players, etc., and safety will
improve. I am completely opposed to the mentality that suggests that
we can behave any way we want and count on technology to save our
asses.

It would be wonderful if we lived in a world where that would work.
But we don't. I agree that vehicles (aircraft, motor, etc.) would
all be MUCH safer if people would pay attention to their
piloting/driving.

Well, that's where more regulation could make a difference. How about BFRs
for drivers' licenses? Or having to be rated in type before one can
legally operate different classes of vehicles? I'm not under any illusion
that these practices could become a reality in our society, but I'm sure
that safety would improve dramatically if they were.

When you figure out a way to get a better human, then we can start
talking about getting that better human to change their behavior.
Until then, you're stuck with the kind of behavior that the current
human is willing to engage in.

Agreed. However, if we maintain the mindset that it isn't necessary to
become better humans because technology will be sufficient compensation
for our idiocy, I'm afraid that we'll ultimately lose that game.

Regards,

Neil