Category: Cultural Commentary
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Honoring a Legacy: My Great Uncle Derek Clayton, Visionary Botanist
William Derek Clayton (1926–2023) was a pioneering botanist whose groundbreaking work in grass taxonomy at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, reshaped the study of plant classification. His contributions, including the seminal Genera Graminum and the development of GrassBase, have left an enduring legacy in botanical research. This tribute explores his life, achievements, and lasting impact…
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Rwanda’s Plastic Ban: A Blueprint for Designing a Sustainable Future
In a world grappling with the environmental consequences of unchecked plastic use, Rwanda stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation. The country’s decision to ban non-biodegradable plastic bags on August 10, 2008, was a bold move that rippled through its socio-technical system, reshaping societal behaviors, business practices, and environmental norms. More than just…
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Technofeudalism: The New Power Structure of the Digital Age
Technofeudalism is reshaping the digital age, where powerful tech corporations act as modern-day lords, controlling platforms that millions depend on for commerce, communication, and livelihoods. This blog explores the key features, real-world examples, and implications of this emerging system, as well as strategies to resist its grip on society.
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Taming AI: Ethics and Human Responsibility
Taming AI is more than just a tech challenge—it’s a human responsibility. Join me as I reflect on a workshop exploring ethical AI in UX research, dive into key takeaways from global AI guidelines, and add a dash of humor with whimsical visuals like a robot dog on a leash and a lollipop man stopping…
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How To Design Experiences for AI – workshop
Attending Greg Nudelman’s workshop, ‘How To Design Experiences for AI,’ was an eye-opening journey into the future of AI-driven design. From crafting chatbot assistants to optimizing smartwatch interactions, this session highlighted the exciting possibilities at the intersection of creativity and technology in UX/UI design.
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Solar Sisters: Redefining Sustainability Through Community and Design
Discover how Solar Sisters is transforming sustainability with their zero-waste shop and café, combining community spirit with humanity-centered design principles. From saving plastic bottles to hosting poetry nights, their journey offers inspiration for creating lasting change.
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Cringe and Growth: A Reflection on Self-Perception
Cringe—the discomfort we feel looking back at our awkward moments, and how it reflects our growth. This post dives into the paradox of cringe and nostalgia, explores the rise of internet cringe culture, and asks: how can we embrace the discomfort of our past selves while navigating the world of social media?