Inclusive design as promoter of social transformations : understanding androgyny in contemporary society

Abstract

This article results from a research work for the elaboration of a dissertation, within the master’s degree course in Integrated Design of the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo—Portugal, developed from Androgyny studies and its influence on genderless product design. With the development of this research, supported by literature review and research works, survey and case studies, issues related to the identity of the individual were deeply studied and understood, namely those related to gender expression, as well as the interpretation of social and cultural action in Androgynous Identity formation. Bearing in mind this theoretical framework, it was possible to identify and analyse products designed under the influence of genderless concept and its definition. The few cases that fit within the scope of the study reveal a diversity of approaches that are considered to be more based on commercial arguments than on an honest concern with gender issues and their influence on the characteristics of the product. Therefore, it is thought that there is an opportunity to investigate more about the subject at least in order to highlight the theme framed by the purposes of Design.