Architecture and Planning ETDs

Publication Date

5-3-1973

Abstract

The design profession is not coping successfully with the increasing complexity which characterizes recent design problems. The standard method used by other disciplines/professions in dealing with this complexity is to abstract a problem in such a manner that problem solving techniques of proven effectiveness can be applied. Such techniques are not currently available to the design profession. However, the design profession is bound by a common culture to these other professions/disciplines and is, therefore, structured by common abstract principles. By elucidating these abstract principles, it will be possible to develop effective problem solving techniques for the design profession. In western culture the most effective methods for the abstraction of complex phenomena are based on inductive reasoning. In turn, the resulting body of knowledge, classical science, has formed a metaphysics, scientific materialism, from which cultural values are deduced. However, classical science has evolved into a body of knowledge exemplified by quantum mechanics. This body of knowledge is rationally incompatible with scientific materialism. Because of the increased pressure to reorder the environment, the design profession is relying more on the problem solving techniques evolved through scientific materialism, i.e. engineering. This source is based on an invalid paradigm, i.e. classical science. Sources not so compromised will provide more relevant assistance to the design community. The first such source is mathematics. Mathematics is a value-free, sophisticated system of abstract relationships in which both deduction and induction have productive, non­conflicting roles. The second source is the current state of scientific knowledge. From these sources two conclusions are drawn regarding the design profession. The first conclusion is that shared paradigm is a necessity to fulfill the rational requirements of the design community. The second conclusion is that the creation of a design solution to an original problem is a unique, unconscious function.

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Architecture

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

School of Architecture and Planning

First Committee Member (Chair)

Don Paul Schlegel

Second Committee Member

Theodore N. Guinn

Third Committee Member

Michel Louis Roger Pillet

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