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What the New York subway tells us about the future of the internet
Crime, divided leadership and problematic innovation could all hold back its potential.
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Three things that have held back New York’s underground also threaten the promise of our online network.
PHOTO: AFP
Stephen Bush
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The underground railway is an unappreciated wonder of the world. Invented in 1863 by private entrepreneurs in London who were looking to make money transporting suburban commuters to work, it spread rapidly across the globe.
One reason to visit New York’s Transit Museum is it not only reminds you of how impressive an endeavour the city’s subway (opened 1904) was but what an achievement all underground railways are.
