Ergonomics and the global problems of the twenty-first century

Abstract

The world will face major ecological and social problems in the coming century, including population pressure, pollution, water shortage, urbanization, etc. To solve these problems requires changing human behaviour. What is the role of ergonomics? Can we design constraints that are perceived as freedom? Can there be a metaphysics of ergonomics in which we can find ethical values for design which transcend cultural bases?