An Evolving manifesto of contingent design: On Knowledge, Process, and Method

1_We acknowledge that there is no, and will never be, such thing as absolute knowledge. If there were, we would not be interested in it.

2_We value knowledge as the process of self-determination of meaning.

3_There only exist parallel processes of identification of meaning in constant relation with each other and with diverse levels of mediation between them. The scientific method is one of them, with a high (yet not absolute) level of mediation between different subjects.

4_We embrace uncertainty and instability as normative systems. Meta-stability creates a constant tension in identifying and creating meaning (ontogenesis).

5_We Favour Practices of improvisation, trial-and-error and intuitive awareness. Applying knowledge in this form enjoys the vital generation of meaning given by constant withdrawal of final determination and structural instability.

6_Contingent Design builds on solidarity and horizontal collaboration rather than professionalization and hierarchical compartmentalization of knowledge; this way always involving the subjectivization of the ones practicing it.

8_Horizontal exchange of knowledge is fun; vertical chain of command is boring.

9_We reject the proposition of Utopias as means to control the future.

10_We reject the direction of our efforts towards a final resolution.

11_The future never arrives; thus, we care about what is contingent.