#design compass

BEYOND US…

Design Compass’ main focus is to investigate, reflect and theorise about our urban landscapes - the people who live, love and prosper in our cities, the ever-changing architecture which manipulates the way in which people move around those cities and interact with one another, to the environment which conditions these activities.

However, from time to time it is good to stop and look at it all from a far. But how far?

Beyond our planet, how much do we really know about what else is out there? and if we had more knowledge would our way of life/ our treatment of earth / our thought processes alter?

When you begin to consider space and time and the unfathomable scope of the universe it really makes human life appear seemingly infinitesimal in comparison and really forces you to question what the purpose of it all is?

Beyond what we know, is there other life? or an after life? or something else completely beyond what we are able to comprehend?

What does it take to change the world? How can one person be so vehement in what they believe that their selflessness alters the minds of others and as a result causes worldwide change?

In light of the recent death of a man revered by many as a modern day hero, it seemed an opportune moment to reflect upon what Nelson Mandela represents.

How does one human being come into this world believing in something so strongly that they are willing to die, sacrifice family and lead a life of constant struggle for it?

Nelson Mandela started life in a tribal village but went on to change the political and social landscape of South Africa forever, the after-shock of which was felt across the world. So how does one person find the fortitude to fight against what they believe to be morally wrong, even though society tells them that they're wrong and that there is no hope of change?

Mother Teresa, Martin Luther-King and Mahatma Gandhi are all other examples of those that have dedicated their lives to what they believe in.

So what can we learn from these impassioned beings? with 7 billion of us on this planet - should we all set about trying to change the course of history? And can we be sure that what we're fighting for is morally right?