Cameron Tonkinwise's "Is Design Finished? Dematerialisation and Changing Things" critiques the modern relationship with designed objects, arguing that a focus on finished products leads to unsustainable consumption patterns. The author draws on Heidegger's philosophy to examine how designed objects are perceived as complete and static, leading to a cycle of disposability. The text suggests that designers should shift their focus toward creating imperfect, evolving products that can be maintained and repaired over time. This would require a fundamental change in the ontology of design, moving away from the creation of discrete, finished objects and toward a more continuous and responsible approach. Tonkinwise suggests Product Service Systems (PSS) that aim to extend the life of products. The text concludes by questioning whether designers are capable of embracing this shift, suggesting a need to reconsider the very nature of design itself.

Please note that the podcast covers key points from the source with synthetic voices, which may have glitches. It’s a reflective, not comprehensive, interpretation.

Tonkinwise, Cameron. “Is Design Finished? Dematerialisation and Changing Things.” Design Philosophy Papers 2, no. 3 (2004): 177–95. https://doi.org/10.2752/144871304X13966215068191.

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