I was fortunate to participate in a workshop during the International Design Week that aligned perfectly with my topic of “toxic Instagram.” In this workshop, our aim was to counteract the movement of UX design where it is no longer the human using technology, but rather technology using the human. Users are reduced to raw materials for these platforms, paying with a significant amount of personal data.
During the workshop, we collectively reflected on the emotions we experience when using Instagram. On one hand, it was reassuring to realize that we all share similar feelings and that we’re in the same boat. On the other hand, it further emphasized the importance of instigating change. As individuals using a platform like Instagram, we don’t bear direct responsibility for everything that happens to us. We are, in a way, victims of this technology, carrying the consequences with us.
Humane Interaction Design aims to shift its focus to the human beings living in the real world, in contrast to User Experience (UX) Design, which often instrumentalizes individuals as users and limits them to that role. An example of this can be seen in the realm of social media, where empathy is often forgotten, and many of the values that define us as humans are being eroded. On social media platforms, we present ourselves in a particular way, without immediate consequences that exist in the offline world. It creates a sense of disembodiment, where we may not witness the reactions to our actions. The problem arises when the system stops serving you, but you are serving the system. Social media is a prime example of this, as it keeps users engaged without necessarily helping them achieve their actual goals or progress in any meaningful way. The longer we stay engaged, the more it benefits the platform rather than serving our personal growth or well-being.
The workshop’s exploration of humane design left a lasting impression on my understanding of the role of technology in society. It challenged the prevailing narrative where users become mere commodities for data collection. Instead, we reimagined UX design as a means to foster authentic human experiences. This experience reminded me of the essence of humanity, embracing both the highs and lows, and recognizing the power of genuine connections. It was a transformative journey that reinforced the significance of designing with empathy, purpose, and a profound appreciation for the human experience.
The workshop experience highlighted the importance of a shift in perspective when it comes to design. It reminded me that the ultimate goal should always be to create meaningful and impactful experiences for human beings. I realized that technology should serve as a tool to enhance human lives rather than overshadow them. By embracing a humane design approach, I acknowledged the value of genuine connections, emotions, and diverse perspectives. It emphasized the need to consider the ethical implications of our designs and to prioritize the well-being and empowerment of users (humans). This workshop served as a powerful reminder that putting the human at the center of design is not only essential but also deeply rewarding.
I want to take these thoughts and all the emotions that have emerged during this week to delve deeper into exploring how to counteract this problem, specifically focusing on Instagram. I want to examine different approaches and analyze existing movements and features, building upon them to find potential solutions.
