Response: Milton Glaser’s Ambiguity & Truth
Thoughts on the Road to Hell:
The Road to hell test is a list of questions created from the aspects of looking into the design industry in the current social setting. It demonstrates the conflict between monetary profits, power in hands and the moral character of the designers. I wasn’t quite surprised to see these questions being asked to designers of present days as we have come to a time where design has become a tool, not for its original purpose of benefitting the society through visual communication but as a commercialized tool to attract more sales and profits. The happening of these is not entirely on the fault of designers as they are also human who needs money to survive in the current world.
As mentioned in the reading, we are living in a world distorted with lies, it is hard for designers to determine whether they are getting the correct concept or knowledge to even judge their own designs as most design/ commercial ads now are created within a short deadline, where the designer themselves do not even have time to research deeply into the topic. Due to the fast-paced and monetize society, it is hard for designers to say “Stop” as it not only means they lose money but perhaps also their chance to get their works and talents recognized by people. Thus, I think the road to hell should not only be the question for the designers but instead, for the society, asking about why do we value money and power more than the basic principle of humanity, honesty and sincerity.
How far would I get down the list and why? Should any other things be included on the list?
I think I am able to get down the list till number 5 as I believe for the first 4, even though it did some harm to people, it is still on the minimal level which can be easily stopped through being more careful and by doing more research before buying in the idea/ the products. However, from 5 onwards, the harm it causes is out of my expectation and has become hard for people to avoid. I am someone who believes in karma and so what goes around come around, and I definitely do not want to live on with such a burden.
What are my boundaries as a designer?
As a designer, I believe design should at least be beneficial to the people, or if I am not able to do so, at least be bold and honest about the harm and list it out for the people to see and make their own judgement. We are not judges, but we are designers who help them visualize the options/choices they have.
