Design and Solidarity: Conversations on Collective Futures

In this book, artist Marisa Morán Jahn and architect Rafi Segal converse about the transformative potential of mutualism and design with leading thinkers and practitioners. From these dialogues emerge powerful visions of futures guided by communal self-determination and collective well-being.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Mutual aid is of utmost importance during times of crisis. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, new forms of sharing had gained momentum to address precarity and stark economic inequality. Today, a diverse array of mutualistic organizations aims to fundamentally restructure housing, care, labor, food, and more. However, design, art, and architecture play a crucial role in shaping these initiatives, fulfilling their promise of solidarity and ensuring that these values endure.

In this book, artist Marisa Morán Jahn and architect Rafi Segal engage in a conversation with leading thinkers and practitioners, including Mercedes Bidart, Arturo Escobar, Michael Hardt, Greg Lindsay, Jessica Gordon Nembhard, Ai-jen Poo, and Trebor Scholz. Together, they explore the transformative potential of mutualism and design, considering how design inspires, invigorates, and sustains contemporary forms of mutualism such as platform cooperatives, digital-first communities, emerging currencies, mutual aid, care networks, social-change movements, and more. From these dialogues, powerful visions of futures emerge, guided by communal self-determination and collective well-being.

The book delves into the role of design in fostering solidarity and collective well-being. It highlights how design can create spaces and experiences that promote community, collaboration, and shared responsibility. It also explores how design can address social and environmental challenges, such as housing inequality, food insecurity, and climate change.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea of "design for the commons." This concept emphasizes the importance of designing for the benefit of everyone, rather than for individual profit or gain. It suggests that design can be a powerful tool for creating shared resources, services, and spaces that promote social cohesion and collective well-being.

The book also explores the role of art and architecture in shaping mutualistic initiatives. It highlights how artists and architects can use their creativity and expertise to create spaces and experiences that inspire and empower communities. It also explores how art and architecture can be used to communicate and promote mutualistic values and principles.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on examples from around the world to illustrate the transformative potential of mutualism and design. They showcase projects and initiatives that have successfully implemented mutualistic principles and practices, and they offer insights into the challenges and opportunities that arise in the process.

In conclusion, Mutualism and Design is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that explores the transformative potential of mutualism and design in shaping our future. It offers a powerful vision of a world where communities are empowered, resources are shared, and social and environmental challenges are addressed. By highlighting the role of design, art, and architecture in fostering solidarity and collective well-being, the book provides valuable insights and practical strategies for creating a more just and sustainable world.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 135 x 214 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231204040