The responsibility designing solutions for sustainable societies is a difficult one. How do we really know we are on the right track to sustainable futures? This blog is a journey to the top of the mountain, for an overview, as well as down to the valley for action and details, exploring how design as a profession and theme of research can contribute. What we aim for is a good life and resilient living conditions for human and non-human creatures. Today, and for the coming seventh generation.
Seven generations in front of us might sound impossible to imagine. Well, that is what I thought as well, until these last days. Experiencing that a new generation is turning up in my life, made me think. Looking at the row of women in my family, – actually today I know the name of seven generations: Caroline, Kristine, Harriet, Solveig, Kristin (me), Mathilde, and Noelle Amanda. I have met all except my grand grand mother, Caroline. Looking at these women, I know that they have been living in rather poor conditions as well as rich. My grand daughter is born in Sweden. Looking at Hans Rosling, the Swedish doctor and researcher, and his way of defining the world population in different living standards, from level 1-4 (Rosling 2018, Factfulnes) the aunt sisters of ours have at least experienced the levels 2,3, and 4. Maybe also level 1. Three of the generations have experienced war conditions. This «exercise» makes the world come so much closer. How do we understand the life that was lived before us? Do we see them as happy and joyful, even with less gods and material wealth? What type of growth are we searching for and supporting as designers for today and future generations?
To read more about the four levels – borrow the book, or take a closer look here: https://www.gapminder.org/fw/income-levels/