A critical analysis of the re-appropriation of everyday objects through activities of de-consumption

Kowalska, Phoebe Emma Florence (2024) A critical analysis of the re-appropriation of everyday objects through activities of de-consumption. Doctoral thesis (PhD), Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

The interactions between those who produce, design, and use objects is complex, and centres on the understanding that objects are designed and used for an intended function. There is still much to learn about the consumer-to-object relationship, and the multifaceted dynamics between the key stakeholders involved. What requires more consideration and where this thesis contributes is the central, and until now, neglected focus on how the designed function of an object performs a key role in this regard. What is investigated through this research is how consumers go against this assumed understanding, seemingly not abiding to the designed systems in place. This thesis contributes to debates within non-representational theory and the affective capabilities of material objects (Thrift, 2008). Furthermore, it expands on learnings of object affordances and the signifiers present in the consumer-to-object dynamic (Gibson, 1979). The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between consumers and the designed functionality of material objects. To achieve this, the focus is on comprehending factors that impact intended and unintended object use. This thesis is positioned as a consumer research study carried out through the lens of a design researcher, the intention being, to offer novel insights to the field of consumer studies. The contribution of this thesis is three-fold. There is a practical contribution through the identification of factors that impact a consumer’s perspective of the designed functionality of material objects. There is a theoretical contribution through the development of key research concepts ‘Re-appropriation’, ‘De-consumption’, and the notions of ‘Doer’ and ‘Receiver’ objects. These concepts offer a new way in which to frame the consumer-to-object relationship. Finally, there is a methodological contribution in the creation of a ‘Re-appropriation Primer’, a textual and visual tool designed to provoke industry debate around the designed functionality of material objects. Keywords: Consumer-to-Object Relationships, De-consumption, Doer and Receiver Objects, Designed Function, Re-appropriation, Re-appropriation Primer, Unintended Object Use.