From good to the greater good

Book chapter (2017)

Authors

A.E. Pohlmeyer Design Aesthetics - IDE
P.M.A. Desmet Design Aesthetics - IDE
Research Group
Design Aesthetics (IDE) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2017 A.E. Pohlmeyer, P.M.A. Desmet
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Published Date

2017

Language

English

Reuse Rights

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Faculty

Industrial Design Engineering

Department

Human-Centered Design

Research Group

Design Aesthetics

Abstract

In this chapter, we outline why and how design can (and cannot) support the sustainable wellbeing of individuals and communities. Building on findings of well-being researchers, we first address the reasons why material well-being, as experienced through the consumpfion and ownership of products and goods, does not necessarily contribute to subjective wellbeing. On the other hand, products that are valued for the activities and experiences that these enable can be a profound resource for happiness. This discussion provides the foundation
for an approach to design for well-being that includes three main ingi-edients: design for pleasure, personal significance and virtue. These ingredients will be detailed in depth and several directions to design for well-being will be introduced, addressing both challenges and opportunities for design theoiy and practice.