The Exploration of Speculative Design and Materiality in Humanities Discourse

Background Purpose-driven design, prevalent both in South Korea and globally, often faces constraints in addressing contemporary challenges such as Anthropocene and climate change. This study seeks to challenge these limitations and to explore novel design methodologies for transformation. Specifically, the study explores the intersections between speculative design and the emerging humanistic discourse on the nature of objects, with the aim of offering new theoretical and methodological perspectives to the design community. Methods This research employed a comprehensive literature review focusing on the seminal theories of Bruno Latour, Timothy Morton, and Tim Ingold, who are at the forefront of the materiality discourse. Elements of their theories relevant to materiality, design materials, and speculative design were explored. In addition, an analysis was conducted on speculative design-related exhibitions from the past five years, media articles, and designer portfolios that resonate with the humanist narrative. Results Through our analysis, we identified connections between the work of designers such as Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg, Superflux, and Formafantasma and the humanities discourse. We propose the incorporation of design methodologies that engage in dialogues with materials, underpinned by the lexicon of science fiction, as a prospective approach for projects in South Korea. Conclusions Beyond the adoption of new technologies, the intertwining of design with external humanities discourses presents an opportunity for the evolution of contemporary design methodologies. It is expected that such interdisciplinary endeavors will provide a solid theoretical foundation that fosters innovative conditions and explorations. This approach empowers designers to meet today's challenges and to generate a new understanding of materials as dynamic entities.