Senior Web Designer • Teaching web design • Featured by Webflow, One Page Love & more • Cyclist • DNVR → KC → GVL

Benten

I currently have two books that I would highly recommend. I'd say these are less on the "appreciate design" side of the spectrum and more focused on how powerful -- or damaging -- design -- or the lack of thought when approaching design -- can be.Caps LockI finished this book last week and it was beyond fascinating.Ruben Pater uncovers the tie between graphic design and capitalism, and it’s truly enlightening. You'll learn about the ethics of the banana trade and how graphic design has helped to build an empire from a fruit that was nearly extinct, complete with politics, slave labor and warlords. Or about how the 40-hour workweek was created and the gender norms that came along with it.

We have a ton of power to shape the world as designers. It’s our duty to be aware of how our work is being used and take steps to improve our world actively. The book finishes with a refreshing review of several organizations that are doing just that.Invisible WomenCaroline Criado-Perez highlights the ways in which our world is built solely for cis white males, without any regard for the needs of women (among others).

This book caught my attention after listening to an episode on 99% Invisible where the author shares the appalling ways in which women are overlooked in how our world is designed.

Another one of my favorites that has dramatically changed the way I think and approach my work.

I currently have two books that I would highly recommend. I'd say these are less on the "appreciate design" side of the spectrum and more focused on how powerful -- or damaging -- design -- or the lack of thought when approaching design -- can be.

I finished this book last week and it was beyond fascinating.

Ruben Pater uncovers the tie between graphic design and capitalism, and it’s truly enlightening. You'll learn about the ethics of the banana trade and how graphic design has helped to build an empire from a fruit that was nearly extinct, complete with politics, slave labor and warlords. Or about how the 40-hour workweek was created and the gender norms that came along with it.

We have a ton of power to shape the world as designers. It’s our duty to be aware of how our work is being used and take steps to improve our world actively. The book finishes with a refreshing review of several organizations that are doing just that.

Caroline Criado-Perez highlights the ways in which our world is built solely for cis white males, without any regard for the needs of women (among others).

This book caught my attention after listening to an episode on 

 where the author shares the appalling ways in which women are overlooked in how our world is designed.

Another one of my favorites that has dramatically changed the way I think and approach my work.

Benten

What book would you recommend to help someone who isn't a designer appreciate good design?