Short answer
Designers should actively seek to understand and incorporate the intrinsic values of the natural world into their design processes, moving beyond anthropocentric viewpoints.
- Field
- Sustainability
- Source
- Sustainability Science (2019)
- Method
- Conceptual Framework Development and Case Study Application
- Evidence
- Moderate effect
Designers can move beyond purely human-centric considerations by developing frameworks that explicitly incorporate the intrinsic values of the non-human world. This sustainability research insight is drawn from a 2019 study published in Sustainability Science. Using Conceptual framework development and case study application, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Designers should actively seek to understand and incorporate the intrinsic values of the natural world into their design processes, moving beyond anthropocentric viewpoints.
Integrating 'More-Than-Human' Values into Design Decisions
Designers can move beyond purely human-centric considerations by developing frameworks that explicitly incorporate the intrinsic values of the non-human world.
Sustainability Science · 2019
Key Findings
- 01The 'Life Framework of Values' provides a structured approach to consider intrinsic values of nature.
- 02Participatory methods and an 'extended peer community' can facilitate the articulation of non-human interests.
- 03Integrating intrinsic values can enhance procedural justice in valuation processes while retaining practical benefits of ecosystem service frameworks.
Application
Design takeaway
Designers should actively seek to understand and incorporate the intrinsic values of the natural world into their design processes, moving beyond anthropocentric viewpoints.
How to apply
When designing products, services, or systems that interact with natural environments, explicitly map out potential impacts and inherent values of the ecosystems involved, using methods that allow for their articulation.
Project actions
- 01Consider how your design project can represent or advocate for the interests of non-human elements.
- 02Explore methods for stakeholder engagement that go beyond human users to include ecological entities.
Method & Evidence
Variables
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- +Introduces a novel framework for value integration.
- +Emphasizes participatory and inclusive research methods.
Limitations
Quantifying or definitively representing 'intrinsic values' of nature can be challenging and may rely on subjective interpretations.
Reliability & validity
The validity of the 'Life Framework' relies on the robustness of the participatory methods used to articulate values and the coherence of the conceptual integration. Reliability would depend on consistent application across different contexts.
Think critically
To what extent can the 'intrinsic values' of the non-human world be objectively articulated and integrated into design decisions, and what are the potential pitfalls of such an approach?
Design Principles
"Design for ecological reciprocity: Acknowledge and integrate the inherent value and interests of non-human entities into the design process and outcomes."
Traditional design often overlooks the ecological impact and inherent worth of natural systems. By adopting a 'more-than-human' perspective, design practice can foster more responsible and holistic solutions that acknowledge the interconnectedness of all living systems.
What This Means for Your Design
Think about how your design affects nature, not just people. Give nature its own 'voice' in your design process to make it more responsible.
How to use in your project
- 1.Use the 'Life Framework of Values' as a conceptual tool to analyze the values considered in your design project.
- 2.Discuss how your design process could be expanded to include 'more-than-human' perspectives.
Add to My Project
Quick Cite
Paragraph starter
This design project explores the integration of 'more-than-human' values, drawing inspiration from frameworks that consider the intrinsic worth of natural systems. By applying principles of ecological reciprocity, the aim is to move beyond anthropocentric design considerations and develop solutions that acknowledge and respect the inherent values of the non-human world, fostering a more holistic and responsible design practice.
Source
Sustainability Science
Making intrinsic values work; integrating intrinsic values of the more-than-human world through the Life Framework of Values
journal · 2019
View sourceQuestions About This Research
- What does the research say about integrating 'more-than-human' values into design decisions?
- Designers should actively seek to understand and incorporate the intrinsic values of the natural world into their design processes, moving beyond anthropocentric viewpoints. Evidence: Sustainability Science (2019).
- Why does "Integrating 'More-Than-Human' Values into Design Decisions" matter for design?
- Traditional design often overlooks the ecological impact and inherent worth of natural systems. By adopting a 'more-than-human' perspective, design practice can foster more responsible and holistic solutions that acknowledge the interconnectedness of all living systems.
- How can designers apply this research?
- Designers should actively seek to understand and incorporate the intrinsic values of the natural world into their design processes, moving beyond anthropocentric viewpoints.
- What were the main findings?
- The 'Life Framework of Values' provides a structured approach to consider intrinsic values of nature.. Participatory methods and an 'extended peer community' can facilitate the articulation of non-human interests.. Integrating intrinsic values can enhance procedural justice in valuation processes while retaining practical benefits of ecosystem service frameworks.
- What research method was used?
- Conceptual Framework Development and Case Study Application.
- How strong is the evidence?
- Evidence strength is rated Moderate effect, based on a 2019 journal from Sustainability Science.
- What should I do differently in my next project?
- When designing products, services, or systems that interact with natural environments, explicitly map out potential impacts and inherent values of the ecosystems involved, using methods that allow for their articulation.
- What are the limitations?
- The operationalization of 'intrinsic values' can be complex and subjective, requiring careful definition and participatory engagement to ensure meaningful representation.