There has been a consistent, overarching critique of overcommercialization in the design field throughout the development of the “First Things First” (FTF) manifesto. There has been a shift in focus towards environmentalism in later renditions, it is clear that there is still an issue of balancing the marketability of an artist, their artwork and their personal visions. Office workers dominate the creative field, coercing young designers into selling dispensable or destructive products. Basically, each version of the manifesto rejects the appropriation of skilled artists for trivial purposes in the design field. 

The most recent version is unique in that the consequences of this system include non-artists. As profitable as these capitalists have made the marketing field out to be, FTF 2020 points out that the lion’s share of profits only continue to increase, causing harm to anyone who was not a part of the elite. Additionally, later versions note the role technology has played in shaping the world of design. It is no secret that movements such as modernism are a reflection of art and technology progressing together. As technology has progressed, the demand from consumers has also greatly increased.Â