GHASSAN ALSERAYHI
 MSc. Arch, M. Arch, B. Arch, Assoc. SCE

ARCHITECT + EDUCATOR + RESEARCHER
Critical Computation: Authorship Flattening
and the Democratization of Knowledge


  The notion of authorship flattening challenges traditional notions of singular authorship and highlights the collaborative and collective nature of knowledge production in computational design. It emphasizes the importance of open-source approaches, collaborative platforms, and shared resources that allow for the democratization of knowledge and the cultivation of diverse perspectives. By embracing authorship flattening, designers and practitioners can foster a more inclusive and participatory design process that transcends individual genius and celebrates the collective intelligence of communities.

The intersection of computational design and cultural contributions raises questions about the relationship between technology and cultural identity. As computational tools become increasingly integrated into the design process, there is a risk of homogenization and cultural erasure, where local and indigenous design traditions are overshadowed by dominant global aesthetics. Critics argue that computational design should be approached as a means of amplifying and celebrating cultural diversity rather than erasing it. This necessitates a critical examination of the biases embedded in algorithms, data sets, and computational systems to ensure that cultural nuances and local knowledge are respected and preserved.

In addition to the social and cultural dimensions, ethical considerations also come into play in the realm of computational design. The use of algorithms and automated processes raises ethical dilemmas regarding privacy, surveillance, and the responsible use of data. The collection and analysis of vast amounts of user data to inform design decisions can potentially infringe upon individual privacy and raise concerns about data ownership and consent. It is imperative for designers to approach computational design ethically, respecting privacy rights, advocating for transparency, and ensuring that the benefits of technological advancements are distributed equitably.

The discourse surrounding computational design and digital materiality intersects with broader debates on sustainability and ecological consciousness. As the architectural field grapples with the urgent need to address climate change and reduce environmental impact, computational design offers opportunities for optimizing building performance, energy efficiency, and material utilization. By simulating and analyzing various design scenarios, architects can make informed decisions that minimize resource consumption and ecological footprint. However, critics caution against the reliance on computational simulations as a panacea, emphasizing the importance of holistic approaches that integrate computational tools with sustainable design principles, vernacular knowledge, and local context.

The integration of computational design within the realm of architecture represents a profound shift in how we conceive, create, and experience the built environment. This shift necessitates a critical examination of the social, cultural, ethical, and ecological implications inherent in computational design practices. By embracing a multidisciplinary and inclusive approach, architects and designers can navigate these complexities and harness the transformative potential of computational design to create spaces that are responsive, culturally resonant, environmentally sustainable, and socially just. It is through a nuanced and rigorous engagement with these critical dimensions that computational design can truly contribute to the advancement of the discipline and the betterment of society as a whole.





References
    1. Manovich, Lev. "Software Takes Command." New York: Bloomsbury, 2013.
    2. Oxman, Neri, and Oxman, Rivka. "Material Ecology." New York: The Museum of Modern Art, 2020.
    3. Bostrom, Nick, and Yudkowsky, Eliezer. "The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence." In "The Cambridge Handbook of Artificial Intelligence," edited by Keith Frankish and William M. Ramsey, 316-334. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2014.
    4. Kieran, Stephen, and Timberlake, James. "Refabricating Architecture: How Manufacturing Methodologies Are Poised to Transform Building Construction." New York: McGraw-Hill, 2004.