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: Paperback / softback
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, highlighting how it can inspire, invigorate, and sustain these initiatives. It showcases examples of successful design projects that have contributed to the development of mutualistic organizations and movements. The authors argue that design can create spaces and environments that promote collaboration, community, and shared responsibility, which are essential ingredients for building resilient and sustainable communities.

Furthermore, the book explores the relationship between design and social justice, emphasizing how design can be used to address systemic inequalities and promote equity. It highlights the importance of inclusive design, where design solutions are tailored to meet the needs of diverse populations and ensure that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

The book also discusses the challenges and limitations of mutualism and design, acknowledging that they are not without their complexities and challenges. It explores the potential for conflicts and power dynamics within these initiatives, as well as the need for effective governance and management structures to ensure that they are sustainable and equitable.

In conclusion, Mutualism and Design is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a powerful vision for a more collaborative and equitable future. It demonstrates the transformative potential of mutualism and design in addressing social and economic challenges, and provides a roadmap for building resilient and sustainable communities. By engaging with leading thinkers and practitioners, the book offers valuable insights and practical strategies for creating a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 126 x 205 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231204057