The Ethical Consumer
uncovering hidden data




Matthew Sweig, Salome Cerqueira
sweig@somadesign.com
Soma Design
Canada

The Ethical Consumer is an add-on component designed to work with popular handheld devices. Using a cellular modem, the unit reads a product barcode, connects to a central database, and displays product specific production data. The consumer can then compare the social, cultural, and environmental repercussions of purchasing one product versus another. The ultimate goal of this product is to improve the practices of production executed as a result of supply and demand and impose the question upon the consumer: WHAT DO I REALLY NEED?

The Ethical Consumer inserts additional, often hidden or overlooked, criteria into the product selection process.


The Ethical Consumer
uncovering hidden data




Gavin Ivester: "The information explosion isn't worth much unless the right info reaches the right person in the right place and time. This is a simple, powerful concept that should exist today- it makes key information known when and where it can make a difference."

Anne Ellegood: "Playing up the initial utopic potential of the Internet as an accessible site of data, the Ethical Consumer can also be seen as a response to the overwhelming impulse on the part of big business to use the Internet as a marketing tool. A thought-out alternative to impulse buying, knowing more about a product before purchasing it certainly has its allure."



The Ethical Consumer
uncovering hidden data




Matthew Sweig, Salome Cerqueira
sweig@somadesign.com
Soma Design
Canada


Age: 26

Design Inspiration:
My design work is fueled by visions of utopia, existing and theorized ecological systems, a sense of community and a desire for social justice.

(Non-)Design Heroes: Michael Sorkin, Hundertwasser, Jane Jacobs, Aldous Huxley, Noam Chomsky

Comments: Avoid socializing with other designers.







The Ethical Consumer
uncovering hidden data




Matthew Sweig, Salome Cerqueira
Soma Design
Canada

The Ethical Consumer is an add-on component designed to work with popular handheld devices. Using a cellular modem, the unit reads a product barcode, connects to a central database, and displays product specific production data. The consumer can then compare the social, cultural, and environmental repercussions of purchasing one product versus another. This product will help improve working and living conditions throughout the world by illuminating the horrific production practices behind so-called "value" products.

The Ethical Consumer inserts additional, often hidden or overlooked, criteria into the product selection process.