Planning theory

Course goals

Content

What is the role of a spatial planner? Which types of rationalities guide planning practice? Why is theory important, although planning is a practice-oriented discipline? Is it planning a technical, political, communicative, or ethical process? What does it mean to plan beyond the human? How are environmental, social, and economic goals balanced when planning for sustainability? 

These are some of the questions addressed in this course, from different theoretical perspectives. We learn that the answers to such questions depend on specific spatial and political contexts and on different theoretical perspectives. In fact, the field of planning theory has been characterized by fragmentation and diversity of approaches and views, representing the complex worlds in which planning practices occur. This diversity is primarily complex or ‘wicked’ problems that planners face and have to address: e.g., how to mediate conflicting interests in solving the housing crisis, how to coordinate across multiple domains and private sectors that are needed to make cities more sustainable, or how to develop guiding visions and strategies for sustainable and inclusive urban futures that build on place-based potentials. There is no consensus on how to address them, especially regarding complex sustainability issues. Such complexity requires a clear understanding of the (theoretical) ideas behind planning practice.

In this course, we explore classic and contemporary theories that have co-evolved with practice in the field of spatial planning. Students will explore the main theories, concepts, thinkers, and debates around planning theory within different historical and geographical contexts. We learn how thinking about theory in relation to planning practice has evolved from early positivist and rational approaches to postmodern ones, and how this evolution has influenced planning practice. Thus, the course will focus on crucial planning theories (e.g., rational, incremental, advocacy, radical, and communicative planning), the growing emphasis on sustainability and resilience in planning, and calls for alternative epistemologies in planning theory, including perspectives from the Global South.

In this course, students acquire the knowledge, concepts, and reasoning required to make sense of the complexity of planning practices across different urban contexts. They also learn to reflect on how diverse planning theories shape (and are shaped by) societal perspectives on planning problems and the roles of planners in different contexts. Moreover, students practice their writing skills and critical thinking. This will prepare you for the rest of the track.