Planning Theory

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

The classes aim to critically introduce the main themes of the program Course followed by class discussions, previously prepared on the basis of individual readings and guided discussions in small groups of students. Discussions should be raised by specific case studies of policies, plans and/or planning projects in which the positions of the different stakeholders, the particular methods to approach real problems, and the visions and strategies behind will be emphasized, crossing and illustrating the role and comparative influence and applicability of the different planning theories.

Learning Outcomes

The objectives of this course relate to the need to equip students of the 3rd cycle leading to a Doctorate in Spatial Planning with a solid background on the evolution of the theoretical and doctrinal thinking in this scientific field and on the complex and multifaceted nature of the current planning debate. The introduction of and the critical dialogue between the major theoretical approaches to planning and the related conceptualization of space and society, will foster the critical capacity and autonomy of the doctoral student, exploring, in particular, the relationships between theories and practices in contemporary planning. The skills acquired will prove particularly useful to address the meaning, purpose, context and limitations of planning practice and research.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

The concept of Theory. Typology of Planning theories.

City, urban visions and utopias. Early thinkers and modern utopias.

Development of Systems Planning and Rational Comprehensive Planning. Processual Rationality in Planning Theories.

Marxist Perspectives and the Critical Theory. Political economy. Advocacy Planning.

Decision Processes. Mixed Scanning e Muddling Through theories. Pragmatism and Neo-liberalism in the Planning Theory.

The city and the Post Modern thinking.

From outopia to eutopia. Post modern utopias.

Ambientalism and Ecological Rationalism. Ecosystem vision of Cities. Introduction and critical perspective on the sustainability concept.

Collaborative Planning. Communicative Rationality. Participative Practices.

A critical view on the evolution of Planning Theories. Theories and Practices. Evaluation in Planning.

Synthesis and Prospects.

Head Lecturer(s)

António José Pais Antunes

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Preparing and defending an individual essay on a general theme suggested by the course lecturer: 100.0%

Bibliography

- Allmendinger, Philip (2002) Planning Theory, Palgrave, Basingstoke (UK)

- Bridge, G & Watson, S (2002) City Reader, Blackwell, Oxford

- Campbell, S & Fainstein, S (2004) Readings in Planning Theory, Blackwell, Oxford

- Parker, Simon (2004) Urban Theory and the Urban Experience, Routledge, London

- Taylor, Nigel (2004) Urban Planning Theory since 1945, Sage, London