AxisGroup International Inc.

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Toy Recognition



Toys are never mistaken for somethingelse, even when far
removed from the context of a toy store or a child's play
space.
 
Tools also are immediately recognisable. But a tool is
recognised in terms of its specific function or purpose
("there's a knife") where a toy is recognised simply as one of
the class of toys ("there's a toy"). Whether it's a war toy or a
fuzzy toy, a toy is a toy first, and a particular toy second.
 
Because function is a determinant, tools are not generally
interchangeable with one another. A screwdriver cannot
substitute for a knife. Knives of any size, quality or style are
knives because they cut.
 
In contrast, toys defy definition by function. It is their toy-like
manner that defines them, not their shape, use or function.
 
The strong characteristic resemblance of toys to each other is
borne out by their use. One can readily substitute for another.
"Would you like a toy?" we ask a child. "Johnny wants that
toy, so take another one." We are confident that any toy will
do, because they are all alike.
 
Toys are defined by their manner and not by their physical
'function' of little cars or bunny rabbits. Is it toy-like?
Then it's a toy.

 

© 1993- 1995 Alexander Manu ©1995 Danish Design Centre "ToolToys - Tools with an Element of Play "
The author grants permission to make a digital or hard copy of part or all of this work for personal use provided that copies are not made or distributed for profit. The copyright notice and the title of the publication must appear on all printed copies.