Covid-19 is an unevenly distributed dystopia. As our global systems break down amidst the crisis, it is important to acknowledge how we got here. Too often, we dismiss negative images of the future in favour of brighter ones that paint a more desirable or convenient picture. While it is tempting to forgo dark futures for the sake of realizing bright ones, dystopias play an important role in society. This presentation will demonstrate why Covid-19 is a dystopia, the value of designing with dystopias, and how we can use dystopias to build a better future for all.

April 11, 2020