Culture & Society
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 1.1.5
Culture
Communities are made up of a wide range of different people. These people can be influenced by and have an influence on design.
Changes in fashion and trends
- People want to have the latest product or fashion item.
- Fashion is constantly evolving, which creates consumer demand for the new season’s style.
- This creates an opportunity for designers to update and develop designs to fit in with the latest trends and fashions.
Different faiths and beliefs
- Communities are made up of people with different faiths and beliefs.
- Designers are responsible for ensuring that their product doesn’t cause offence.
Example: Gucci
- Gucci’s balaclava knit top was withdrawn for causing offence due to its oversized lips and black colour, resembling a ‘black face’ which has negative cultural significance to black communities.
Example: Carrier bags
- Carrier bags contain an animal fat which is made from boiled animal bones, to prevent the bags from sticking.
- This causes great offence to many different faiths and beliefs who avoid touching or using these products.
Society
The design and manufacture of a product should try not to have a negative impact on others and be as accessible and inclusive as possible.
Design for disabled and elderly
- Designs should:
- Be inclusive.
- Example: Pushchair handles being adjustable for people of different heights.
- Clothes being available in a range of sizes.
- Be inclusive.
Designs for disabled and elderly cont.
- Be accessible.
- Example: Door frames and entrances to public buildings being wheelchair friendly.
- Improve people’s lives.
- Example: 3D printing being used for facial reconstruction and artificial arms.
Different religious groups
- Religions have hugely differing views on lifestyle, significant colours and important symbols.
- Communication with different groups is vital when producing products to prevent them causing harm or offence.
Example: trainers
- In 2002, Umbro created new trainers called Zyklon, which were quickly withdrawn because of the offence caused.
- The Nazis used Zyklon B when murdering millions of Jews in their concentration camps during the Second World War.
Example: swimwear
- The design of modest swimwear for Muslim women that enables them to swim whilst covering their body, respecting beliefs.
Test yourself on Culture & Society
Why was Gucci’s balaclava knit top withdrawn?
What do some carrier bags contain to prevent the bags from sticking?
In 2002, what did Umbro call their new line of trainers that had to be withdrawn?
What is NOT something new designs should do?