It’s not just a recent trend, but I often come across a phrase like “Use the power of design to bring a wonderful future!” It’s so enticing that no one can dispute its validity. That said, I still suspect that it depends on people’s belief that we should praise future and progress as something wonderful.

For centuries in the past, throughout the occident and orient, religious thinking assumed that humankind had flourished in ancient times and the future would only get worse toward the last days of this world. That’s why religions had been urging people to do as much good as possible in life. As the Age of Enlightenment opened a new era and the influence of Marxism started to take effect, people seemed to begin accepting the idea that the future should be brilliant. But please be reminded: A story like this has been around for only less than 500 years.

I think people nowadays are obsessed with the idea of brilliant future. They use it as an excuse to do whatever they believe is necessary, leading them to to seek convenience and invention. This trend is so hard-wired that bucking it is as difficult as forgetting how to ride a bicycle. Looking back on my childhood when I naturally enjoyed daily routines despite the inconvenience, I feel like saying that a bit of retrogressive changes would be helpful in bring happiness.

I’d rather believe the power of design should be used not only for bringing a wonderful future but also for restoring the human presence in a process that reverses the progressive view of the world.

Takuji Watanabe

CMFG Design Dept.

Senior Director