Exploring the Intersection of Speculative Design and the Hero's Journey

Exploring the Intersection of Speculative Design and the Hero's Journey

Introduction:
In the world of design, two distinct concepts have emerged: speculative design and the hero's journey. While seemingly unrelated, these two approaches share common elements that can lead to innovative and thought-provoking outcomes. In this article, we will delve into the double diamond of speculative design and question the traditional hero's journey narrative. By exploring the connections between these concepts, we can gain valuable insights and actionable advice for designers seeking to create impactful and meaningful experiences.

The Double Diamond of Speculative Design:
Speculative design, unlike commercial-oriented design, focuses on envisioning potential futures and understanding the ways in which our world may evolve. The double diamond framework of speculative design consists of two diamonds, each representing a different phase of the design process.

In the first diamond, the focus is on discovering weak signals of change and synthesizing them into specific scenarios. This phase involves extensive research to collect traces of emerging futures in the present. By scanning signals and defining scenarios, designers can gain a deeper understanding of the alternative socio-technical configurations that may shape the future.

Moving into the second diamond, designers shift their focus to imagining life in these alternative scenarios and prototyping design concepts. This phase allows for the exploration of fictional design objects that exist in the "How Might Be" world. Through diegetic prototyping and discussion, designers can stretch the perception of what futures are possible and engage with specific fragments from a unique future reality.

Questioning the Hero's Journey:
While the hero's journey, popularized by Joseph Campbell, has become a widely accepted narrative structure, it is essential to question its underlying assumptions. Campbell's monomyth, with its focus on the hero's triumph and transformation, often overlooks the darker aspects of heroic myth.

Greek heroic myths, for example, depict heroes who hurt people, threaten families and cities, and even commit heinous acts. From Herakles' madness leading to the death of his own family to Achilles' thirst for vengeance causing the death of his beloved Patroclus, these stories present a more complex and nuanced view of heroism.

Campbell's theory, influenced by global myths of antiquity, fails to acknowledge the inherent flaws and contradictions within these narratives. The omission of the truth behind the hero's journey raises questions about the universality of Campbell's structure and its applicability in contemporary storytelling.

Finding Common Ground:
Despite the contrasting nature of speculative design and the hero's journey, there are noteworthy parallels worth exploring. Both approaches seek to understand and shape narratives that resonate with individuals, provoke emotions, and inspire change.

Speculative design, with its focus on alternative futures, can benefit from incorporating the complexities and moral dilemmas found in heroic myths. By acknowledging the potential consequences and sacrifices associated with change, designers can create more realistic and impactful scenarios.

On the other hand, the hero's journey can be enriched by embracing the speculative mindset. By challenging the traditional narrative structure and introducing elements of uncertainty and exploration, designers can create heroes who grapple with ethical dilemmas and navigate through complex, ever-changing worlds.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace complexity: When engaging in speculative design or storytelling, embrace the complexities and contradictions that exist within the human experience. By incorporating shades of gray and moral dilemmas, you can create narratives that resonate on a deeper level.

2. Incorporate diverse perspectives: To create meaningful and inclusive narratives, seek out diverse perspectives and voices. By exploring different cultural mythologies and drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources, you can challenge traditional narratives and create more dynamic and relatable characters.

3. Iterate and prototype: Both speculative design and storytelling benefit from an iterative and prototyping approach. By constantly refining and testing your ideas, you can uncover unexpected insights and create more impactful experiences for your audience.

Conclusion:
The intersection of speculative design and the hero's journey offers a wealth of opportunities for designers and storytellers alike. By embracing the double diamond framework of speculative design and questioning the assumptions behind the hero's journey, we can create narratives and experiences that go beyond the traditional and inspire change. Through complexity, diversity, and iteration, we can shape the future of design and storytelling, one thought-provoking experience at a time.