Thesis: Which Things First? The issue of socially responsible graphic design from modernism to the present
Master Thesis
Graphic Design
Aalto University of Art and Design,
Helsinki
156 pages
Designers have an important role in creating the complex visual reality that tells us where to go, what to buy, what to think and who to be. Visual communication is filled with values and that gives graphic design an ethical and political dimension. Ideas and opinions about graphic design as cultural and social factor have changed drastically during its fairly brief history. By following the discussion on designer’s role and responsibility I have narrowed down the most significant eras and influences that define graphic designers’ role as responsible professionals. Designer’s relationship to content (not only to form) as well as designer’s role as author, are some of the key issues when understanding designer responsibility.
