The allure of scientism | Ben McAllister | TEDxSMU

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• published: 12 Nov 2014
• views: 1777

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. We live in a culture that worships data. In domains ranging from public policy to product design, data and research are seen as the path to a more certain, scientific future. For designers, this means an increasing pressure to justify every decision with research. But what if instead of opening our eyes, research is closing our minds? In this talk, Ben McAllister takes a hard look at how data and research shape our view of the world. Drawing from design, economics, and the philosophy of science, he highlights the dangers of "scientism," a rough approximation of science that offers easy answers, but lacks the rigor of actual science. He challenges us to resist these easy answers and instead pursue work with integrity and a sense of wonder. Ben McAllister is a Senior Director of User Experience at Comcast. His work focuses on the intersection of design and strategy. At Comcast, Ben is working on applying design principles to improve Comcast’s customer experience. Prior to Comcast, Ben was a Creative Director at frog design, where he worked with many of the world’s leading brands to reshape their business through design. Ben's writing has appeared in The Atlantic, Fast Company's Co.Design, PSFK, and Interactions Magazine. About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)