51-386 Holism & Design

9 units, Carnegie Mellon University

In recent decades there has been a resurgence in whole systems science and philosophical holism. There has been a corresponding spread of a holistic worldview which is gradually supplanting the mechanistic worldview that has been dominant in western society for several hundred years. As designers begin to address wicked problems within complex social and natural systems, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how to frame problems within appropriate contexts, and to apply principles of holism when doing so. This seminar will look at some of the ways in which holism has been understood and applied historically, and will explore key concepts of contemporary holism and their relevance to design, particularly design for transition to sustainable futures transition design. It will be based on readings, contributions from experts from diverse disciplines such as literature, music and performance and class discussions and exercises.

Prerequisites: none listed

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