Zone of tolerance

Our paths often cross with those of other people – and not always those who we would care to invite to the tranquillity of our personal desert islands. They are often those who have different ways, values, likings and needs. Our hunter-gatherer ancestors could always split up and head off in the other direction, but ever since we settled in towns and cities this is no longer an option. Some people do what they can – closing themselves off in enclaves inhabited by those of the same age and income, in fenced off estates with CCTV, driving their cars from one underground car park to another. But even then, we still have to drive through the city, going through crossings for pedestrians and bicycles. Recently, a new bike path was opened in my neighbourhood. The route runs a for few kilometres with breaks alongside the main road. It’s well used by many people and not only by cyclists. Electric scooter riders and rollerbladers have also using it. But apart from those time