Opening my eyes!
From the beginning of my life I was told that there is a certain way to do things (ie. open a box, make a peanut butter sandwich, give the dog a bath). My parents taught me that you do things in a certain order. I'm sure that this order is not one that they composed themselves, but rather one that was taught to them. Now, my parents have always taught me to think differently than people and to have my own opinion on issues. I don't want to paint the picture that this is a "control issue" over what is right and what is wrong, but rather what comes first and what comes next. Does it really matter?
Mccullough makes a very interesting point in chapter 7 when he alks about methodology. He says that, "Methodology hinders design." At first I read it and then I began thinking about it in a broad context. We are told that there are certain steps to take in life such as go to school, go to college, get a job. Who decides if this is the correct track for all people? Who holds this ultimate authority? If we, as a society, do not support those whose break this chain of events, then are we hindering one's individual "design?" Could this person encounter something that would change the societal preferences that we have so long been told and thus acted upon?
Of course there are some methods that have proven to be most effective (ie the scientific method). This will aide students and researchers in finding correct or the best results. However, is it possible for someone to create their own way of researching? If McCullough is correct then the scientific 'methodology' is inhibiting the design that people may have for the future.
McCullough is trying to demonstrate that the technological world must foster those who take their own paths or create their own ways of doing things if we are to ever make true progress. True progress means producing technology that is fit for its users, able to be used effectively while providing the best possible experience. Today we seem to look upon those who make their own trails as odd or weird. We need to look at these people as the pioneers of the future who are ready and willing to take the future of society on their backs as they dive into untread waters. These people are the true creators and inventors.
So, while methodology does serve its purpose in society, we must remember that it does hinder design and that shifting away from a formal method can benefit society as a whole. Thanks Mr. McCullough for opening our eyes!
Comments
Posted by: Youngjin Yoo
Posted on: October 5, 2005 11:51 PM
Have you seen Apple TV commercial, Think Differently? Your writing reminds me of that.