The ethical responsibility of a designer

Thelma Dike’s article, “The Ethical Responsibility of a Designer,” reflects on the significant influence designers have on society and stresses the need for ethical design practices.

She begins by recounting a personal anecdote involving a lawyer’s moral dilemma, drawing a parallel to the ethical challenges designers face. Dike emphasizes that designers are not merely creators of visual elements but also influential figures who shape behaviors and cultural norms.

Dike concludes by urging designers to engage in difficult conversations and make conscientious decisions to ensure their work contributes positively to society. She asserts that ethical design is not just about avoiding harm but actively promoting the well-being of users and the broader community.