Abstract

FAERM, Steven. Interpreting XXI century design thinking: Introduction. Cuad. Cent. Estud. Diseñ. Comun., Ensayos [online]. 2015, n.53, pp.147-152. ISSN 1853-3523.

It seems that everything around us is becoming more and more extreme. The once dominant and prevalent “middle-ground” is being absorbed by two opposite axes, thus creating vastly contrarian situations and experiences in our communities. Societies and cultures are increasingly gravitating towards all aspects that are bigger/smaller, faster/ slower, simple/complex, austere/luxurious, technological/natural, private/public. Due to the growing extreme environment, a breaking point is being faced by many around the world -particularly in the U.S.- in several areas. The fragile environment, economic inequality, increasingly intrusive technology, and the tenuous future of design education are experiencing divergent crossroads that require immediate address; society must either adopt radical change or be faced with dire consequences. If we are to reign-in the growing extremities, a middle-ground that is more desired by the populace must be proposed for widespread adoption. It is with this need to raise awareness, demonstrate through provided example, and expand the necessary dialog that the seven American authors of this Journal present their papers examining the future of design and our broader communities.

Keywords : Design; Extreme; Environment; Growth; Awareness; Consumer; Design teaching.

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