Critical appraisal and the development of planning theory

Abstract

This article starts with an overview of the development of planning theory and ends with a description of some alternative 'scenarios' depicting the human-environment relationship. Andreas Faludi sets out in his book "Planning Theory" a definition of planning theory. He compares divergent approaches to planning and distinguishes between the methodology (which planners and architects have to do) and the reality (the social, political and economic realities that planners and architects must try to influence). Obviously, Faludi launched an intensive debate on planning theory, and this debate should be continued in order to gain knowledge about the methodology and reality of planning. This knowledge is necessary to create a better human-created environment.