We have been drawn to design because we are excited by the visual and all its creative possibilities, by our fascination for language made visible, the sense of satisfaction in the organization of ideas and the articulation of a message. Dealing with these issues challenges us, entertains us with complexity. We are engaged in the pursuit of beauty and have a talent for it. However we ignore the large possibility that the results of our efforts are not only trivial but also damaging and ultimately antisocial. We are by no means the root of all evil, just disgustingly complacent towards the misery of others.
"But design gives us the tools to make the world more beautiful and humane: one that reflects our intelligence and imagination" such sentiments are cliche justifications to force an arbitrary vision of beauty upon others for our personal gain. Hitler's "final solution" was an aesthetic one too.
Designers make a mediated existence more desirable, to turn people away from the abundance of life and direct sensory experience. Fantastical creations make us regret the world of reality and blind us to the true cost of western ideals. No reality is more regrettable than the oppression and suffering of others in far off countries (perhaps putting together components for yet another bubble shaped circular saw).
Designers play an integral part in convincing the general public that "It will be O.K", that the current system is working for all. You need only look at the newspaper, between the adverts and human interest stories is the tip of a titanic grade iceberg of human atrocities. The reality is that more people are suffering today than ever before and carefully laid out pamphlets even if they create support for lesbian refugee whales in non toxic ink are not going to alleviate the situation. .
We are over consumers and over producers. Designers are only aiding and abetting this situation. Masking excess in necessity and cloaking uselessness in "beauty" and design value.