Letter to the Editor: Positive street names can influence behavior

Suppose Interstate 64 in New Kent was named” Courtesy Highway”? An aggressive, mean road hog like me might not be so hellbent to rudely cut off other cars or pass them before getting in front of them and slowing down. I would be influenced, if only a little, by a road named after a quality or value that we all admire.

What if one of our roads that are chronically littered with trash were renamed “Neatness Way?” Would vengeful vandals rip down the street signs and throw more rubbish than ever along the road? I think not, but that most people would insist on respect for the new road name and find suitable receptacles in which to deposit their waste.

On a street called “Cordiality Lane,” you might experience a welcoming atmosphere and even that old-time southern hospitality. The street name would become a cogent indication of what the residents there are like.

Names that challenge us to more ethical and decent behavior would actually put us on a higher level of living. The essence of such road and street names would tend to positively influence us and result in benefit to our county.

Neal Wallace
Quinton