The Social and Economic Role of Bridges in History (Coursework Sample)

The Social and Economic Role of Bridges in History
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The Social and Economic Role of Bridges in History
1 Social role
Bridges have historically played an important social role in the society. The connection of two sides of a river through a bridge increased interactions between people and cultures from both sides of the river. This mingling of diverse cultures and beliefs promoted tolerance and understanding and, consequently, lessened violence, prejudice and war. Improved interaction also promoted the exchange of religious, political, intellectual ideas among other ideologies and improved social cohesion and resource-sharing which translated into financial benefits through trade (Elman & Elman, 2001). Bridges were also used in emergency management to evacuate people in the event of earthquakes, avalanche, flood, fire and other man-made or natural disasters. Notably, the California Department of Transportation suggested that old bridges should be reserved for emergencies and special vehicle use (Valcik & Tracy, 2013).
Moreover, bridges reduced rural isolation and poverty by increasing access to services such as education and healthcare thereby curtailing poverty