The Smithsons felt that cars were an expression of individual freedom and personal status. Essentially, the more luxuries offered, the higher social standing one was to enjoy, much like the associations of a larger home. During that era, the car drew much comparison to buildings and the Smithsons reinforced that view particularly with houses. Throughout the reading, features of the car's interior are compared to household appliances.
Today, the contemporary car is viewed in a completely different light. Having a vehicle is seen as more of a necessity rather than a luxury. With the improvements in mass production, almost anyone can enjoy a car of good quality, which dilutes the value of the status connotation. Based purely on anecdotal evidence, the car also is less likely to draw comparisons to buildings and homes and more likely to be compared to the human body or other natural forms.
wonder if it's possible to bring the sense of freedom/status to democratic product? does it have to be exclusive to be cool?
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