Shifting AI Narrative. From Dystopian to Solarpunk Futures in Design Education

Serbanescu, Anca; Schuller, Kees

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) narratives have long been dominated by dystopian visions, particularly in science fiction media. These representations constrain designers' capacity to envision alternative futures, reinforcing fear-based binaries of pro or anti-AI stances. This paper introduces the Solarpunk movement as a constructive counter-narrative, offering optimistic, ecologically integrated futures. Drawing from literature and cinematic examples, such as The Wild Robot, this contribution argues for integrating Solarpunk values into design education. Doing so empowers designers to develop inclusive, sustainable, and democratic futures where AI is seen as a collaborator rather than a threat.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: Learn X Design 2025
• Start Date: Sep 22, 2025
• End Date: Sep 24, 2025
• Acceptance Date: Jun 14, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jul 11, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 14, 2025
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed