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Design As Democratic Inquiry: Empowering Communities Through Design

Dean Butler

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Published in Design As Democratic Inquiry: Putting Experimental Civics Into Practice

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In his thought-provoking book, Design As Democratic Inquiry, renowned design scholar and practitioner John Thackara argues that design has the potential to be a powerful force for positive change in communities. He believes that design can empower individuals and communities, enabling them to take ownership of their built environment and shape it in ways that meet their needs and aspirations.

Design as Democratic Inquiry: Putting Experimental Civics into Practice

by Charles Durrett

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12542 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Thackara's book is based on the premise that design is not simply about aesthetics or functionality. It is also about power and agency. Design decisions can have a profound impact on the way people live, work, and interact with each other. By understanding the power of design, we can use it to create more just, equitable, and sustainable communities.

Thackara illustrates his argument with a wealth of real-world case studies. He shows how design has been used to improve the lives of people in communities around the world. For example, he describes how a group of designers in India worked with local villagers to develop a new type of cooking stove that was more efficient and less polluting. He also tells the story of how a group of architects in the United States worked with a community of low-income residents to design a new affordable housing development.

These case studies demonstrate the power of design to make a real difference in people's lives. They show how design can be used to address social problems, improve the environment, and promote economic development.

Thackara's book is a call to action for designers and community leaders. He believes that design has the potential to be a powerful tool for social change. He challenges us to use our skills and knowledge to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.

If you are interested in using design to make a positive impact on your community, I highly recommend reading Design As Democratic Inquiry. Thackara's book is full of inspiring stories and practical advice. It will help you to see the power of design in a new light.

About the Author

John Thackara is a world-renowned design scholar and practitioner. He is the author of several books on design, including In the Bubble: Designing in a Complex World and How to Thrive in the Next Economy: Designing Tomorrow's World Today. Thackara is also the founder of the Doors of Perception, a London-based design consultancy. He has worked with clients around the world, including the United Nations, the World Bank, and the European Union.

Free Download Your Copy Today

Design As Democratic Inquiry is available now from all major booksellers. Free Download your copy today and start learning how to use design to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.

Design as Democratic Inquiry: Putting Experimental Civics into Practice

by Charles Durrett

5 out of 5