Why do you agree or disagree with your peers’ response to the scenario? What new insights about social and ethical responsibilities of graphic designers did you gain from your peers’ initial posts? Which considerations did your peers focus on more or less than you did?

As a graphic designer, you may sometimes find yourself in a situation that does not align with your personal values and/or beliefs. At the same time, as a professional, you may feel obligated to create designs regardless of your personal values and/or beliefs.

In this discussion, you have been given a scenario that is lawful but presents an ethical dilemma.

Scenario
You are just starting out as a freelancer, and you have been given the opportunity to design for a trendy beauty brand. The brand was launched less than two years ago but has become very popular. It is known for its “clean ingredients” that are devoid of chemicals and are procured from sustainable sources. The packaging is also a huge hit with customers because it does not use any plastic. The brand is also known for promoting recycling initiatives that appeal to both current and prospective customers for being environmentally friendly.

You have been asked to work on the design of a new line of products that is meant for teenagers experiencing acne. For the advertisement, the client wants you to airbrush the model’s skin so that it appears to be unblemished and acne free. You are concerned about the message this will send to teenagers who are at an impressionable age and are likely fighting societal and peer pressure to look a certain way.

Discussing ethical and social considerations may mean exploring opinions and perspectives that are different from your own. Remember to remain thoughtful and respectful toward your peers and instructor in your initial post and responses.

In your initial post, address the following in no more than two or three paragraphs:

Explain how you would respond to the scenario. Include the financial, ethical, and/or social considerations that went into your decision.
Note: There are no right or wrong answers here; each graphic designer responds to dilemmas differently.
Summarize your thoughts on the social and ethical responsibilities of graphic designers.

In response to at least two peers, answer the following in no more than one or two paragraphs:

Why do you agree or disagree with your peers’ response to the scenario?
What new insights about social and ethical responsibilities of graphic designers did you gain from your peers’ initial posts?
Which considerations did your peers focus on more or less than you did?

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