Corazonar: Weaving values into the heart of design research
Diana Albarrán González
Abstract
Modernity has emphasized the need to disconnect from emotions for the sake of objectivity; the mind as the vehicle for sense-making. However, onto-epistemologies from the Global South discuss the relevance of a holistic integration of the body, mind, heart, and life-force (spirit) for a better understanding. In Abya Yala, the dimension of the heart as a center of emotions plays a crucial part in ways of understanding, being, and doing. The act of reasoning with the heart in collectivity (corazonar) allows going beyond analytic reasoning; it integrates emotions and our sensitivity for a holistic approach to research where values are developed and integrated through a yosotros collaboration. Based on Mayan views of the heart, this article proposes using corazonar as a decolonial act to interweave culture, creativity, cycles, connection, community, care, and courage as guiding principles supporting participatory design research in collaboration with communities in the Global South.