McDonough Ted-talk“Our Goal is a delightfully diverse, safe, healthy and just world, with clean air, water, soil and power- economically, equitably, ecologically and elegantly enjoyed.”
I thought this ted-talk by William McDonough was amazing. The first time I watched it I wasn't that into it but after watching it a 2nd and 3rd time, I came to realize that it is actually pretty good. McDonough really stresses the whole idea of how we design things and takes a lot of factors into account. He said in the beginning of his talk that “design is the first signal of human intentions.” He goes on to question what our human intentions should be and how we are going to accomplish them. I think one of the questions he posed, which was, “How do we love all the children of all species for all time?”, was really good. He then explains how this has to be the first question we ask ourselves when deciding on a design. I could go on and on about this ted-talk but I'm going to control myself and focus on the designing of green buildings.
I think its incredible to see such amazing cities, where sustainability is the number one priority. It is really quite amazing that we can build buildings and still remain green. The things McDonough is working on is remarkable. This ted-talk really made me think of Angus and Jack, who both happen to be in France. Angus is greatly concerned with finding corporations that are sustainable and that aren't notorious for damaging the environment. Jack is very interested in green architecture and making the world a healthier place. I think there is hope, and like McDonough said, ““We see that the companies acting ethically in this world are out performing those that don't.”
This ted-talk also reminded me of the novel Ishmael by Daniel Quinn. The book talks a lot about mother culture and how long ago we split into two groups, the takers and the leavers. I see McDonough's plans for the Chinese cities as a step backwards or closer to the leaver lifestyle. With his ideas we are making the world a better place to live. Another question he asks is, “How can we secure local society, create world peace and save the environment?” I think this is a question we should all ask ourselves and really spend some time contemplating the whole concept. One way we can start is by spreading the word. We can take the initiative and try to be one of the first green schools in all of Taiwan. I could really talk about this ted-talk for another 30 minutes, but I shall stop.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_McDonough
http://www.mcdonoughpartners.com/
http://tw.youtube.com/watch?v=IoRjz8iTVoo
Hawken Chapter
Connection
2 comments:
I like your connection between Ishmael and McDonough's idea.
Yes, i also noticed that we had discussion last year about mother culture and our society now. There is huge differences and it still changes ! But, well, we know already, while we are changing another social issues come up with at the same time.
I agree with Jim that your connection between leavers& takers and McDonough's plans for the Chinese cities are linked together just as you point out. I also believe that by having McDonough's design, it can slow down the rate of urbanization, and at least preserve some original natural scenery.
Good connection with Angus and Jack! :D
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