Economies of Design

Abstract

How are the rise of design and neoliberalism connected? How does design change the way we operate as economic beings? What is the economic significance of design?Historically, design has been promoted for itsfor its capacity to add valueto products and services. In contemporary capitalism, however, it assumes a more central and more complex role. Design today is both influenced by, and actively shapes, our economic systems. This ground-breaking bookshines a spotlight onhow design has become embedded in political economies. Itreveals the multiple ways in which design has emerged as a vital feature of neoliberal economic systems, from urban strategies to commercial processes to government policy-making. Drawing on a range of global examples, Guy Julier: explains theeconomic processes of design explores therelationship between design and intellectual property discusses therole of design in the public sector highlights theimpact of design in informal and alternative economies brings theory to life withcase studies on home improvements, fast fashion, shopping centresand more. Economies of Designprovides a thought-provoking new way of understanding and talking about the meanings of design in contemporary capitalism. It is an essential companion for students of design and the creative industries across the arts, humanities and social sciences.

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