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The Politics of Design: A (Not So) Global Design Manual for Visual Communication

by Ruben Pater

Visual communication across cultural contexts

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AlbakiReads Editorial

Visual communication across cultural contexts

Ruben Pater’s manual examines how everyday design choices carry meanings shaped by culture. Drawing on examples from around the world, it considers typography, images, colour, symbols, maps, photography and information across online and offline communication. The book connects visual literacy with the practical responsibilities of communicating across borders, including awareness of how a design that seems neutral in one context may be understood differently elsewhere. Its examples and use of ideas from anthropology and sociology frame design as more than a matter of appearance: visual communication also involves interpretation, cultural context and the possibility of stereotyping or misunderstanding.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Design and communication professionals interested in cross-cultural practice
  • Students studying visual communication or design
  • Readers interested in how culture shapes the interpretation of images and symbols

Themes

Visual literacyCulture and communicationDesign responsibilitySymbols and meaning across borders

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

Many designs that appear in today's society will circulate and encounter audiences of many different cultures and languages. With communication comes responsibility; are designers aware of the meaning and impact of their work? An image or symbol that is acceptable in one culture can be offensive or even harmful in the next. A typeface or colour in a design might appear to be neutral, but its meaning is always culturally dependent. If designers learn to be aware of global cultural contexts, we can avoid stereotyping and help improve mutual understanding between people.

Politics of Design is a collection of visual examples from around the world. Using ideas from anthropology and sociology, it creates surprising and educational insight in contemporary visual communication. The examples relate to the daily practice of both online and offline visual communication: typography, images, colour, symbols, and information.

Politics of Design shows the importance of visual literacy when communicating beyond borders and cultures. It explores the cultural meaning behind the symbols, maps, photography, typography, and colours that are used every day. It is a practical guide for design and communication professionals and students to create more effective and responsible visual communication.
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