Summary:
This funny idiom means to be in control or of superior status. It also refers to someone in a position of power, authority, and influence. The passenger seat, or passenger side, contains someone along for the ride but possesses subordinate qualities.
Successful people often find themselves in the driver's seat metaphorically and in the societal context. They are surrounded by their kindred spirits, those who hold power, authority, and societal influence.
If you want to have fun with a friend, tell them, "You're a scrub along for the ride, in the passenger side of life."
Article:
Being in the driver's seat means we are in complete control, empowered to steer our lives. On the other hand, being in the passenger's seat implies a lack of control, often leaving us feeling like mere bystanders.
There are many fun references to the driver's and the passenger's seat:
I Don't Want No Scrub, by TLC
- "A scrub is a guy who can't get a lover from me
- Hanging out on he passenger side of his best friend's ride."
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrLequ6dUdM
- Driver's Seat, by Sniff' n' The Tears
"Pick up your feet.
Got to move to the trick of the beat.
There is no elite.
Just take your place in the driver's seat."