Psychedelics Design Philosophy
Source: Psychedelics Design created with Midjourney
Design philosophy refers specifically to the principles, beliefs, and ideologies that guide the practice and approach of design. It encompasses the foundational frameworks and guiding principles that influence how designers conceptualize, create, and evaluate their work. Design philosophy shapes decisions regarding aesthetics, functionality, usability, sustainability, and ethical considerations.
Drawing from diverse philosophical traditions such as pragmatism, phenomenology, existentialism, and postmodernism, it informs both the practice and theory of design.
While numerous design philosophies exist, each offering its unique perspective and emphasis, they collectively contribute to shaping the landscape of design practice and theory. Well-known examples include the Bauhaus movement, Minimalism, Postmodernism, Human-Centered Design, Functionalism, Universal Design, and Emotional Design. So let’s make up a new one: Psychedelics Design, rooted in the ethos of exploration, connection, and transformation, a philosophy that seeks to integrate the principles of psychedelics—such as expanded consciousness, heightened perception, and interconnectedness—into the design process.
"As we explore the intersection of design philosophy and psychedelics, we embark on a journey of boundless creativity and profound insight.” - ChatGPT
The First Attempt at the 4 Principles of Psychedelic Design
At its core, the design philosophy of Psychedelics Design builds on the following principles:
Consciousness Expansion:
Embracing a mindset of openness and exploration, designers strive to expand their consciousness and challenge conventional thinking patterns. Psychedelics are viewed as tools for unlocking new perspectives and fostering creativity.
Intuitive Connection:
Designers aim to cultivate a deeper connection with their intuition and subconscious mind, tapping into the inspiration that lies within. Psychedelics are seen as catalysts for accessing subconscious insights and fostering a more intuitive design process.
Interconnectedness:
Recognizing the interconnectedness of all things, designers seek to create designs that honour and reflect the unity of the natural world. Psychedelics inspire a sense of interconnectedness and empathy, guiding designers to create solutions that prioritize harmony and sustainability.
Transformation and Growth:
Designers embrace the transformative potential of psychedelic experiences, viewing them as opportunities for personal and creative growth. Psychedelics are seen as agents of change, catalyzing innovation and evolution.
By integrating these principles into the design process, designers could be inspired to create solutions that not only look good but also foster deeper connections and positive change in the world. Overall, the design philosophy of psychedelics design advocates for a mindful and intentional approach to creativity, rooted in the principles of expanded consciousness, intuitive connection, interconnectedness, and transformation.
