The Politics of Design: A (Not So) Global Design Manual for Visual Communication

Name: The Politics of Design: A (Not So) Global Design Manual for Visual Communication
Rating: 4.8 (189 reviews)

by: Ruben Pater (0)

Many designs that appear in today's society will circulate and encounter audiences of many different cultures and languages. With communication comes responsibility; are designers aware of the meaning and impact of their work? An image or symbol that is acceptable in one culture can be offensive or even harmful in the next. A typeface or colour in a design might appear to be neutral, but its meaning is always culturally dependent. If designers learn to be aware of global cultural contexts, we can avoid stereotyping and help improve mutual understanding between people.

Politics of Design is a collection of visual examples from around the world. Using ideas from anthropology and sociology, it creates surprising and educational insight in contemporary visual communication. The examples relate to the daily practice of both online and offline visual communication: typography, images, colour, symbols, and information.

Politics of Design shows the importance of visual literacy when communicating beyond borders and cultures. It explores the cultural meaning behind the symbols, maps, photography, typography, and colours that are used every day. It is a practical guide for design and communication professionals and students to create more effective and responsible visual communication.

The Reviews

Fantastic book which illuminates so much of what we are conditioned to view as acceptable design standards. Indeed, our personal biases and cultural upbringing influence the work we do in such a significant way. A few typos here and there, but otherwise a highly enjoyable and educational read, with lovely examples throughout. I enjoy the size of the book, as it is easy to slip into a purse and read on the daily commute.

I loved this book and I've been interested in the topic since it was first mentioned by another author I really like. It's not very dense, I could have easily read the whole thing in one sitting. It has a lot of pictures and talks about controversial design from a variety of case studies. I like how he took something that could have easily been boring and academic, and made it into a fun read.

Excellent book, I would recommend to anyone looking for a brief introduction to many interesting topics of conversation. Well put together and included accessible language.

Very thoughtful, It explores the cultural meaning behind symbols and knowledge of silence through visual communication.

This book informed me of so many different perspectives, and challenges what we’re trained to see as the “norm.” Everyone should read this

Interesting and insightful

Way too political.

Yay Love it

Smart and simple