The debate on Objectivity vs subjectivity in design was an interesting subject to explore in the study task work prior to creating my wayfinding system. Wim Crouwell firmly believes in objectivity; 'When Jan says that design is a subjective activity, he adopts -as a designer - the role of intermediary. I’m afraid, however, to adopt such a subjective role, and rather try to take an objective stance.' On the other hand Jan Van Toorn believes in subjectivity; 'I do not believe that a designer can adopt the position of neutral intermediary. The acts you perform take place through you, and you are a subjective link.' Van Toorn strongly opposes Crouwel's opinions and at one point the debate between them gets heated.‘You impose your design on others and level everything. You were at the forefront, and now our country is inundated by waves of trademarks and house styles and everything looks the same.’
Crouwel represents the idea of the designer as messenger whereas Van Toorn proposes the notion of the graphic designer as an enabler of criticism and empowerment. In this way Crouwell can be seen as a modernist, similar to the views of Massimo Vignelli due to their beliefs in simple, corporate work, whereas Van Toorn can be compared to David Carson who's cluttered work directly reflects his own personal style.
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