Status Updates From The Left Hand Of Darkness

"Gethenians could make their vehicles go faster, but they do not. If asked why not, they answer 'Why?' Like asking Terrans why all our vehicles must go so fast; we answer 'Why not?' No disputing tastes. Terrans tend to feel they've got to get ahead, make progress. The people of Winter, who always live in the Year One, feel that progress is less important than presence."