Adversarial Design

Adversarial Design

Adversarial Design is a conceptual approach in design that aims to provoke critical thinking, challenge existing norms, and expose underlying issues or biases in socio-technical systems. It involves creating designs that intentionally subvert or disrupt the intended use or perception of a product, service, or space to raise awareness about social, political, or economic concerns. Adversarial Design often employs strategies such as irony, satire, or juxtaposition to create cognitive dissonance and encourage users to question their assumptions or behaviors. This approach is rooted in the belief that design has the power to shape society and that designers have a responsibility to use their skills to address pressing issues and promote positive change. Adversarial Design can manifest in various forms, such as critical design, speculative design, or design activism, and it often intersects with fields like art, technology, and social sciences. While it may be controversial and sometimes uncomfortable, Adversarial Design serves as a valuable tool for sparking dialogue, challenging the status quo, and imagining alternative futures.

critical design, speculative design, design activism, socio-technical systems, cognitive dissonance, social critique

— Robert Anderson

CITATION : "Robert Anderson. 'Adversarial Design.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=431244 (Accessed on July 26, 2024)"