How humans learnt the concept of design

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Design is all around us, from the clothes we wear to the buildings we live in. But how did humans learn the concept of design? How did we go from creating rudimentary tools to building complex structures that are both functional and beautiful?

One of the earliest examples of human design can be traced back to the Palaeolithic era, when our ancestors first started making tools out of stone. These tools were primitive, but they served a purpose: to help humans hunt, gather, and survive in their environment. As humans continued to evolve, so did their tools. They learned to shape and refine stones to make sharper tools, and eventually discovered how to make tools out of other materials, such as bone and wood.

As humans settled in one place and started to cultivate crops and raise animals, they began to build more permanent structures. The first buildings were simple, made from natural materials such as mud, straw, and animal hides. But as humans continued to experiment with different materials and techniques, their buildings became more complex and ornate.

One of the earliest examples of complex human design is the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro in present-day Pakistan. Built around 2500 BCE, Mohenjo-Daro was one of the largest cities of the ancient world and was home to more than 40,000 people. The city was designed with a grid-like pattern, with streets and buildings laid out in a precise and orderly way. The buildings were made from baked brick, and some had intricate carvings and decorations.

As humans continued to innovate and develop new technologies, their designs became even more sophisticated. The ancient Greeks, for example, were known for their beautiful and intricate architecture, such as the Parthenon in Athens. The Romans, too, were masters of design, creating elaborate public buildings such as the Colosseum and aqueducts that spanned hundreds of miles.

Today, design is a crucial part of our daily lives. We rely on designers to create everything from cars and smartphones to furniture and fashion. But how did we get to this point? It's a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of humans throughout history.

Statistics show that the design industry is growing rapidly, with an estimated 54,000 design-related jobs in the UK alone. In the US, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment in the design industry will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029, adding over 11,000 new jobs to the industry.

The concept of design has come a long way since our ancestors first started making stone tools. From the earliest buildings and structures to the sleek and modern designs of today, humans have always been driven to create beautiful and functional objects. As we continue to innovate and develop new technologies, who knows what incredible designs we will come up with next.