ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the shared semantics among diverse Design definitions to identify shared family resemblance and discusses several dilemmas that make a clear boundary for defining design difficult and multifaceted. This semantic analysis provides evidence that there is no clear shared definition of design, and the term Design is understood through diverse perspectives. Shared word groups inherent in the definitions provide a family resemblance or bundles of inter-predictable attributes for a shared comprehension of Design. Furthermore, a thematic analysis revealed five dilemmas, including Complexity, Zeitgeist, Expertise, Identity, and Disciplinary Perspective, making defining Design multifaceted. While activities and practice differ across disciplines, the fundamental human capacity of productive thinking for determining a purposeful and meaningful design is in fact shared among diverse disciplinary design practices.
