The Dutch national railway company (NS) is set to remove some first-class seating from 190 of its sprinter trains. This decision comes in response to data showing that only a small percentage of these seats are occupied during peak hours.

The move aims to address the resentment felt by second-class passengers who often find themselves in crowded conditions while first-class compartments remain largely empty.

Critics have argued that the change will encourage wealthier individuals to opt for private cars, but this argument is refuted by historical context. The elite abandoned train travel long ago in favor of the freedom and self-determination offered by automobiles.

Historically, the advent of railways initially reversed the social order by providing faster travel for commoners. Railway companies then introduced first-class compartments to cater to the elite, but these were not widely embraced.

The automobile allowed the wealthy to regain control over their travel experience, avoiding the constraints of train schedules and crowded compartments. Today, those who choose to drive often find themselves stuck in traffic, while second- and third-class train passengers can enjoy a faster and more convenient journey.