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The Myth of Rationality: Development Planning Reconsidered

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  • M M Webber

    (Institute of Urban and Regional Development, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA)

Abstract

The classical model of rational planning is fundamentally flawed. It assumes widespread consensus on goals, causal theory sufficiently developed as to permit prediction, and effective instrumental knowledge. None of these conditions pertains. As a result, traditional development planning has been proving ineffectual in developed and developing nations alike. That calls for a different style of centralized planning that constrains itself to constituting the rules for deciding and to promoting open debate. In parallel, planning of substantive strategies, designs, and investments should be highly decentralized, thus fostering multiplicities of potential outcomes, compatible with the wants of plural publics.

Suggested Citation

  • M M Webber, 1983. "The Myth of Rationality: Development Planning Reconsidered," Environment and Planning B, , vol. 10(1), pages 89-99, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirb:v:10:y:1983:i:1:p:89-99
    DOI: 10.1068/b100089
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