EDIBLE SPECULATIONS: DESIGNING FOR HUMAN-FOOD INTERACTION

Abstract

This dissertation outlines Edible Speculations, a methodological approach to Human-Food Interaction (HFI) research that addresses the growing role of technological innovation in food cultures. The approach is exemplified through two design research case studies that deploy Speculative and Critical Design (SCD) methods and extend them into participatory food events. At the events, diverse participants from the public — including farmers’ market visitors, maker faire attendees, and homeless chefs — came together to engage in material explorations of emerging food-technology trends and issues. Along with Edible Speculations, this dissertation extends present HFI scholarship with a critical and reflective mode of inquiry. While speculating together with a lay public audience, the approach scaffolds the growing interests of design researchers in participatory forms of SCD.