The Next Big Idea Daily Who Designed Design?
Jul 10, 2025
Explore the transformative journey of design from mere aesthetics to a crucial influence on functionality and human experience. Discover how design evolved alongside societal changes since the industrial revolution, shaping everything from technology to culture. Delve into the key ideas from a new book that highlights the historical significance of design and its role in making capitalism more approachable. Hear about remarkable designers and projects that showcase design’s potential to drive tangible change.
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How 20th Century Design Transformed Capitalism Into a Creative Force
Design is not an age-old concept but a 20th-century invention that unified aesthetics, function, and problem-solving into one idea.
This invention emerged alongside the Industrial Revolution, helping make capitalism feel friendlier and more creative amidst industrial upheaval and societal challenges.
Artists like Eva Zeisel and Ray Eames became "designers," adding value beyond profit to civic life by shaping human-centered experiences.
Today, design permeates culture and institutions but demands caution; it is a futurist medium that can drive positive change but isn't inherently good.
For example, redesigning the U.S. Census increased participation in marginalized communities, illustrating design's power to deliver tangible societal benefits.
Design Is A 20th-Century Invention
- The concept of design is a modern invention from the 20th century, not timeless or universal.
- Design unites aesthetics, functionality, human-centeredness, and problem-solving into one integrated idea.
Design Softens Industrial Capitalism
- Industrialization and capitalism transformed societies, introducing hardships and chaos.
- Design emerged to make life under capitalism feel less brutal, more creative, and friendly.
