EP 18: John Stech: Same-same or different? Comparing the Thai and American car cultures

What this episode covers

In this episode, host John Stech discusses his observations on the Thai and American car cultures. Having lived in Thailand for nearly two years, he compares what he has observed on the streets, at motorshows, and at car meets. While some like to people-watch, John always has his eyes on the cars he encounters everywhere. Says John, "Cars move us—but in wildly different ways. In America, a chrome grill might gleam with ambition and showy opulence. In Thailand, a dusty pickup truck or sprightly hatchback says: this is life—difficult, communal, and moving forward towards a bright future." John compares the two on their cultural bases, with independence being a main theme in American car culture, while interdependence plays a greater role in Thailand. He briefly explores the impact of popular culture, manufacturing presence, cultural traits that reach back years, as well as changes that are pushing in on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Buckle your seatbelt, relax, and enjoy the insights and shared experiences from John's automotive life. For more information on The Auto Ethnographer you can visit the homepage at https://www.auto-ethnographer.com [https://www.auto-ethnographer.com/]