Delta Feminism
The goal of this project was to change people’s perspective on how uncertainties in Artificial Intelligence (AI) can affect society. It specifically focussed on uncertainties regarding bias and sexism against women by AI. An exhibition was designed which depicts the different stages of a rebellious movement that could form as a reaction to this bias in AI. The exhibition showcased the stages of a social movement set in 2032: Delta Feminism. It illustrates a possible transformation our society could experience if gender biased AI continues to be used as it is now.
Project Type : Group Project – M1.1
Contribution: As this was my first speculative design project I did not take a leading role, however I was a fundamental part of the project and stepped up when necessary.
Date: Sep/2022- Jan/2023
Scoping
The initial starting point of this project was the concept of “Uncertainty in AI”. Uncertainty in this case describes the implicit and invisible percentage of certainty with which, so called, “AI-systems” produce a result. The decision was taken to create a ‘AI Rebellion Toolkit’, which was meant to be a semi-speculative package for people to protect themselves from tech-surveillance in the future.
To further define the scope, key trends and insights were analyzed and potential directions were developed. Afterwards, a brainstorming session followed which explored ways to combat AI.
Co-Creation
Social movements, as societies are, are made up of a vast number of interdisciplinary individuals, which is why it was important for the project to represent a more diverse part of society instead of merely the project group members. Therefore, a co-creation session was organized with the aim to define ways, the movement defined in the first iteration, could combat a biased system.
First participants were introduced to the context via an evidence board after which they were asked about their own experiences with the topic. This was followed by a brainstorming session on how to combat the system.
Design of Action Tools
Tools for members of the rebellion were developed which would act as tools against oppression. After an exploration into CV Dazzle a symbolic face mask was developed to evade facial tracking and a name and shame tool using AR and naming website were developed to expose shady businesses.
Exhibition Design
The final design is a visualization of the social movement Delta Feminism. The exhibition is divided into five sections, each describing relevant moments and elements of the movement. 1. The Cracks explains the situation prior to the start of the movement. 2. The Breaking of the Dam shows the revelation of oppressive AI to the public. 3. The Wave shows the peoples reaction to the news and the emergence of the movement. 4. The Flood displays the tools the movement has to offer. 5. The Calm Water is a reflection moment for visitors of the exhibition to share their thoughts.-
To read the full design report about the project which provides more details into the design decisions download it here: