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Rationalism, Bureaucracy, and Ethics

Author

Listed:
  • S Hasson

    (Department of Geography, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel)

  • M A Goldberg

    (Department of Urban Land Policy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1W5, Canada)

Abstract

Traditional models of rationality in science, bureaucracy, and planning are predicated on the existence of a set of means ( x 1 , x 2 ,…, x n ) being available to achieve a set of ends ( y 1 , y 2 , …, y n ). In these models it is assumed that the ends are given and that there is an identifiable causal relationship between the means and the ends. In such a setting, ethical considerations, rooted as they are in subjective values, are seen as irrelevant and do not enter the calculus of the rational planner, scientist, or bureaucrat. The paper is an examination of rationality and value-neutrality in science, bureaucracy and planning, and it is concluded that there should be an explicit consideration and incorporation of ethics into theories of science, bureaucracy, and planning. The ethics argued for is one based on dialogue and synthesis, that overcomes difficulties posed by absolutist and relativist schools of ethics.

Suggested Citation

  • S Hasson & M A Goldberg, 1987. "Rationalism, Bureaucracy, and Ethics," Environment and Planning B, , vol. 14(1), pages 15-27, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirb:v:14:y:1987:i:1:p:15-27
    DOI: 10.1068/b140015
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