Radical plumbers and playpumps

Abstract

This thesis analyses the PlayPump, a water pump powered by a children's roundabout, which is designed for use in the developing world. The PlayPump is analysed as an example of 'design for development', an area of current design attention to the developing world, and also as an example of objects that combine instrumental functions for the user with communication to audiences. The PlayPump has been advanced through the compelling image it suggests to first world audiences, of children's play effordessly accomplishing a social good, despite its failures for users on the ground in the developing world.