A closer look
Standing on the right side of an escalator so impatient people can walk on the left actually reduces the overall efficiency of the machine. Studies on pedestrian flow dynamics have conclusively proven that if everyone just stood shoulder-to-shoulder on both sides, the throughput of human beings would increase by nearly thirty percent. Leaving an entire half of the escalator empty just so three aggressive finance bros can shave ten seconds off their morning commute creates massive bottlenecks at the bottom. But of course, societal peer pressure and the fear of getting yelled at by a fast-walking commuter keep us clinging to the right rail. We are collectively sacrificing optimal efficiency and making everyone wait longer just to appease the fragile egos of people who think walking up a moving staircase makes them an elite athlete
