Cab Quote by David Letterman
“People say New Yorkers can't get along. Not true. I saw two New Yorkers, complete strangers, sharing a cab. One guy took the tires and the radio; the other guy took the engine.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Late Night with David Letterman, 1995
Cooperation can arise spontaneously among strangers when they share a common goal or environment.
In simple terms: Strangers can work together when they need each other.
Key Takeaway
Look for ways to collaborate with unexpected partners.
Themes
cooperation
city life
human nature
Mood
optimistic
observational
Type
anecdotal
social
When to use this quote
- commuting
- emergency
- team projects
- neighborhood initiatives
Key Concepts
social psychology
collective action
Questions to Reflect On
- How can shared goals turn strangers into allies?
- What conditions make cooperation likely?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all situations foster cooperation; conflict can still occur.
![“Somalis have made my city of Wilmington, Delaware, [their home] on a smaller scale. There is a large, very identifiable Somali community, i might add if you ever come to the train station with me you'll notice I have great relationships with them because there's an awful lot driving cabs and are…” quote by Joe Biden](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e9a/joe-biden-454_add_somalis-have-made-my-city-of-wilmington_71546.jpg)
