Design Research on Cognitive Dissonance in the Context of Labeling Effects

In the digital age, labelling culture is flourishing and labels are widely used as efficient information identifiers. However, labels often lead to cognitive biases and cognitive dissonance in individuals. The aim of this paper is to propose a novel theoretical framework to explore the mechanism of cognitive dissonance under the influence of the labelling effect through three stages: identification, reflection and reconstruction. This study utilises design practice, in particular 'label effect' artworks incorporating video images and interactive installations, to guide people to identify the meaning of labels, reflect on cognitive biases and reconstruct their perceptions of labels in order to mitigate cognitive dissonance. Adopting a design approach to guide an individual's cognitive behaviour not only provides objective and rational guidance when confronted with labels, but also offers a fresh perspective on society's understanding of the multifaceted effects of labels.