Glossary

critical design

Pronunciation

Type/Context

Design Approach

Short Definition

A design approach that challenges traditional ideas by provoking thought and questioning societal norms. It is used to create alternative visions of the future, often addressing social, political, and ethical issues through design practices.

Relevance

Critical design uses design to question and critique social, political, and ethical issues in tech. However, it also poses the unresolved question of whether it can create systemic change or if it merely critiques existing systems without offering clear pathways for action and reform.

Additional Notes

Further Reading

Hamraie, A., & Fritsch, K. (2019). Crip Technoscience Manifesto. Catalyst: Feminism, Theory, Technoscience, 5(1), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.28968/cftt.v5i1.29607Ruggieru, L. (2019, October 21). Critical design will make our lives better [Design Blog]. Maize. https://www.maize.io/cultural-factory/critical-design/