An attempt at doing good

When asked to make a professional ethics pledge, analysing what you think is important for a designer to present to this society in terms of responsible design, I found it really hard to come in terms with myself, being new or relatively unestablished in the industry.
It is one thing to declare stuff, and another to keep true to your pledge. But as endorsers of consumerism and messengers to all good and evil in a degrading society.. I consider it very important to have yourself figured out and always stand for what you think is good.
Here is a humble declaration, an attempt for doing good.

MY PLEDGE FOR RESPONSIBLE DESIGN

Vinay Giridhar

Being a designer brings power. The power to influence people’s minds and actions. The power to change what one thinks, manipulate one’s beliefs, ideas, dreams and aspirations. The power to change entire generations and thus human history. This is the power of media. With such immense power comes great responsibility, to be empathetic to fellow humans, animals and the environment.

Right Choice

If possible, I will try my best to choose the projects, companies I will work for . I will do my homework in finding out the company/ organisation’s history, and outlook. I will avoid projects that I feel are not in the best interest or harmful for people, animals and the environment.

Right Concept

I will try my best,in choosing the right materials for my projects , right from the concept, all the way to the production stage. I will make sure the initial concept or material meets my ethical standards, presenting any idea in a people, community friendly manner. I will try and educate the client the importance and effectiveness of goodwill, in showcasing a brand, or a product.

Right materials

I will try my best and advice clients, recommending ecofriendly materials for production. Cutting down wastage of resources, and promoting the use of recycled materials such as paper and other media.

Avoid acts of plagiarism and fraud

I will not steal someone else's work and lie about it afterward. I will not commit acts of fraud by cheating and misleading my audience.As a designer I will try and be a warrior, fighting evil “isms” plaguing our society such as racism, sexism, terrorism etc.. and create responsible design that informs, enlightens and entertains people, rather than shock , mock and hurt them. I will be neutral in my outlook toward gender, race and nationality.

As a designer I will try and help to support the cause of creating a better, peaceful world.