Description
This article discusses the current state of planning theory and provides an overview of "Planning Futures." The book is divided into four parts, each of which discusses a different aspect of planning theory. The first part discusses the history of planning theory and the various philosophical roots it has. The second part discusses the various methods used to study planning, including positivism, functionalism, and Marxism. The third part discusses the various theories used to explain planning behavior, including rational choice theory, social choice theory, and game theory. The fourth and final part discusses the future of planning theory and offers suggestions for how it can be improved.
Planning theory is currently in a confused state as a consequence of a number of changes over the last ten years in planning practice and social and economic theory. Even prior to these events, planning theory was an uncertain discipline, reflecting planning's precarious position between and resting upon a range of professional subject areas and philosophical roots.
Planning Futures is an attempt to pin down the constantly evolving landscape of planning theory and to chart a path through this fast changing field.
Planning Futures is an up-to-date reader on planning theory, but adds something more to the subject area than a mere textbook. The contributors have attempted to bridge theory and practice while putting forward new theoretical ideas. By drawing upon examples from planning practice and case study scenarios, the authors ensure that the work discusses planning theory within the context of present planning practice. Case studies are drawn from an international arena, from the UK, Europe, South Africa and Australia.
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