Design for a Better World

This essential guide reframes our global crises through the lens of human-centered design, arguing that our most pressing problems—from climate collapse to social inequality—stem from flawed behavioral patterns and systems. Design luminary Donald Norman presents a compelling case that our survival depends on shifting from growth-obsessed models to three core principles: meaningful experiences, genuine sustainability, and humanity-centered solutions. He meticulously traces how the dangerous myth of infinite resources has brought us to the brink, demonstrating that redesign begins with understanding why we act against our own long-term interests.

What distinguishes this work is its actionable optimism—Norman doesn't just diagnose our collective failures but provides a concrete framework for redesigning everything from products to policies to prioritize quality of life over financial gain. Readers interested in systemic change, environmental design, or behavioral psychology will find transformative insights about how small behavioral shifts, when scaled through intentional design, can create massive positive impact. The book ultimately leaves you with the empowering realization that the same human behaviors that created our problems, when properly channeled through thoughtful design, hold the key to our collective salvation.