This course shows students how planners frame the notion of public interest in their work, how planning, which is often intervention in the private market, can be justified in a capitalist society, the role that professional ethics play in the life of the planner, and the ways in which various kinds of planners define their job – and then do it. The course includes both the classic work in planning theory and the latest conversations in the theory community and with a strong emphasis on the value of such work for practicing planners.
Learning Objectives
After completing the course requirements, you should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of planning in a diverse, capitalist society,
- Critically analyze planning theories and understand their applicability as a professional planner, and
- Apply communication skills to express theories learned through writing, discussions, and presentations.