I once heard the definition of a sociologist as someone who investigates what everybody else already knows. And I immediately had to think of this description when I read about a recent survey that concluded: 'one in three men looks upon his automobile as his best friend. Men are very much attached to their car and share with it all their thoughts, secrets and frustrations. Sixty percent likes to talk to his car.' As if I didn't know that already. "Now please start, you lovely @#$!"
 

(image: Object of desire, 1921 advert for Benz & Cie. Courtesy Daimler AG)

January 22, 2010