Sarah Hendren

Sara Hendren, an artist and design researcher at Northeastern University, dives into the interplay of design and disability. She emphasizes the virtues of dependence, advocating for innovative designs that enhance accessibility. Highlighting projects like the Dementia Village in the Netherlands, she shows how sensory-rich environments can uplift those with cognitive challenges. Hendren also explores the ethics surrounding Down syndrome, urging a shift in societal attitudes towards inclusivity and human dignity. Her insights inspire a reimagining of ethical frameworks for the 21st century.

Sara Hendren, an artist and design researcher from Northeastern University, dives into the fascinating concept of the gift economy. She argues that life should be viewed as a gift, emphasizing how our dependencies can actually liberate us. Hendren explores the cultural significance of rituals and social bonds formed through giving, contrasting them with transactional relationships. She critiques modern education for its focus on outcomes rather than genuine purpose and fulfillment, urging listeners to embrace authentic connections over mere transactions.