First, very well written.
There is something to be said about moving up rather than out, but I don't think that will be happening en masse any time soon.
"tough time" tend to bind communities together. I'll agree with that. However, over time, that binding tends to lose its strength. Local communities bind together after a tornado, a hurricane, or a disaster. Those don't last long. You get something more long term, like 9/11 or Katrina, do you still feel any national unity?
Thats very true.
No, I don't think we will. We like the freedom of choice. I like being able to choose between some tiny, non-safe shoebox car and some honking big SUV. If I work my butt off, and can afford that gas, then I should have that right. The more expensive it becomes, the less people will do so though... For me anyways, it comes down to an issue of freedom, and not having government regulate the decisions you make.
Hey man, if thats what you choose to do, more power to you! Out of curiosity, do you do that? I hear tons of politicians saying things like this, but hypocrisy tends to win the day.
I think there are alot of benefits to what you suggest. Healthier people, less cost of living, better environment. I won't debate that. If you make such a decision, please be so kind as to not condemn me for not making the same decision, and please be so kind as to not try and legislate such a decision. If I want that kind of lifestyle, I want it by CHOICE not by FORCE.
Now, will it be the future? That I can't gauge. I doubt we will ever be 100% city centric and bicycle riding, but you never know. Given time and population growth, it may become more important in future centuries to consider this more seriously...