On the Limits of Design

Abstract

Several recent publications in design theory have drawn into question the hope and idealism that often underlie dominant ways of thinking and talking about design. These arguments can be drawn into connection with earlier discussions about how the structural constraints of professional practice limit the ability of designers to enact change. ‘Design civil society’ and ‘infrastructural politics’ are suggested as ideas for helping designers to think through action beyond the limits of professional identity.

Keywords

• design
• politics
• coloniality
• civil society
• infrastructure