Following this revelation, European maps began to feature expansive blank spaces, symbolizing the unknown and unconquered. Although the exploration of these new lands led to the tragic downfall of indigenous populations, acknowledging the unknown proved to be a powerful tool. This acceptance of ignorance and the drive to explore beyond the known world gave Europe a significant advantage in their subsequent global conquests.

Curiosity has always been the driving force behind humanity’s greatest discoveries. Today, many centuries later, we live in an era brimming with solutions, technological advancements, and discoveries. Yet, we, the everyday folks, sometimes fall into the trap of thinking everything has already been discovered. We give scant attention to doubt and curiosity — both crucial in a reality where everything can be altered and manipulated to guide our actions and thoughts. Just as Europeans once accepted their flawed maps placing them at the center of the world, we too must question our limited perceptions of reality and keep the spirit of curiosity alive.

In the realm of design, we often encounter the trend of copying and pasting ideas. It’s even enshrined in design principles: don’t reinvent the wheel, keep things familiar so users don’t have to learn new tools. It makes sense — using a different icon for a shopping cart or experimenting with colors and shapes can be surprisingly disruptive. We are so accustomed to conventional designs that anything new can feel uncomfortable.

But does this mean there’s no room for innovation? Absolutely not. While cookie-cutter websites and templates may get the job done, they don’t lead to new horizons. To truly discover new lands and claim them as our own, a bit of extra effort and creativity are required.