When and why did the turntable morph from playback device to musical instrument? Why have mobile phones evolved changeable skins? How many meanings can one attach to such mundane things as tennis balls? The answers to such questions illustrate this provocative book, which examines the cultural meanings of things and the role of designers in their design and production. Designing Things provides the reader with a map of the rapidly changing field of design studies, a subject which now draws on a diverse range of theories and methodologies - from philosophy and visual culture, to anthropology and material culture, to media and cultural studies. With clear explanations of key concepts - such as form language, planned obsolescence, object fetishism, product semantics, consumer value and user needs - overviews of theoretical foundations and case studies of historical and contemporary objects, Designing Things looks behind-the-scenes and beneath-the-surface at some of our most familiar and iconic objects.
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A must read for those interested in the world of things. It explains complicated theoretical texts in ways that will delight readers. David Brody, Parsons The New School for Design A lucid introduction to many of the theoretical perspectives that exist around objects and their design. For students it provides a deep understanding of the social meanings of design in both its production and consumption and the ethical issues that these raise. Guy Julier, Leeds Metropolitan University Provides the reader with a map of the rapidly changing field of design studies. New Design (2010) Of much use to designers struggling to identify any critical basis with which to begin reflecting upon their own practice. John Vines, Leonardo On-Line In addition to a thought-provoking examination of the role of designers in the design and production process, the book delves into the cultural meaning of our most familiar and iconic objects. Culture
About the Author
Prasad Boradkar is Associate Professor in the School of Design Innovation at Arizona State University.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
2.0 out of 5 stars
Not for the casual reader
27 Aug 2011
By Mary A. Swaty
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
I read a favorable review of this book and thought it would be interesting. Not so for me. Seems intended for the design professional or scholar, not the general reader. I suspect there is much good and meaty stuff here if one has the background and/or patience to study the text carefully. I do not!
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
great text!
3 Dec 2010
By c.ruck
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
Wonderful book. A must have for any individual seeking to know more behind industrial design and the culture of innovation.
2.0 out of 5 stars
To broad
3 Oct 2012
By student
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
I had to buy this book because it is listed in my curriculum in design history. It tries to cover the culture of all things, which is just to much.
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