How the Railways Will Fix the Future

Gareth Dennis explores the significance of railways in shaping a sustainable future, highlighting their potential as tools for social good, technological advancement, and climate resilience while addressing critical questions about their purpose.

In How the Railways Will Fix the Future, railway engineer and transport policy expert Gareth Dennis presents a compelling argument for the pivotal role of railways in creating a better world. He begins by examining the historical context of railways, which were largely developed through capital and imperial interests aimed at extraction and exploitation. This raises important questions about their legitimacy and potential for positive impact. Dennis asserts that railways should not only be viewed as a common good but also as essential tools for humanity's survival and prosperity.

Throughout the book, Dennis explores various themes, including the power of organized labor, the implications of emerging technologies, and the distribution of democratic power. He highlights how railways can serve as a lens to understand contemporary challenges, particularly in light of climate change. By addressing these issues, Dennis emphasizes that railways have the potential to inform our choices and shape a sustainable future. His insights take readers on a global journey, from the abandoned test track of Virgin Hyperloop in Nevada to the bustling stations in Northern England.

With his extensive knowledge of railways and a keen understanding of history and politics, Dennis equips readers with the tools to consider critical questions about the purpose and direction of rail transport. By advocating for a long-term perspective, he encourages a reevaluation of how railways can be leveraged for the greater good, ultimately inviting us to reflect on who our railways should serve and how they can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.