In the reading The Etemology of Design, author Kostas Terzidis argues that “the notion of design…is associated with the past instead of the future.” (p.72) Designers often look to already existing items for inspiration, transforming and building off of what already exists to create something of their own.
In the film Free Culture, creator Lawrence Lessig discusses how copyright laws have become an issue to designers all over the world. Lessig contends that copyright laws slow down culture from changing. Almost all forms of media, especially images, are under copyright laws which forbid any other person besides the owner from using the material. Congress has now extended copyright to 70 years beyond the lifespan of a creator, making it extremely difficult for designers to keep up with the times and improve things happening in the now. Disney, a very influential corporation, has become a pioneer for copyright laws. Every time the copyright on Mickey Mouse is close to expiration, Congress extends the copyright allowing Disney to hold on to it’s trademark character. These laws have made it so Mickey Mouse and all of Walt Disney’s creations are impossible for a designer outside of the corporation to improve on. Because Disney is so influential in society, designers are held back from impacting a large scope of people.
Creativity and innovation build on the past. When designers are not allowed to temper and improve on past ideas, they are held back. When designers are held back, so is society. Designers are crucial in order to help society change and improve. When held back by laws, the designer’s potential to advance and better the world is hindered greatly.
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