Ethics in Planning

This book offers insights into the ethical dimensions of planning, exploring moral implications and professional responsibilities in the field. Ethics in Planning is a valuable resource for students and professionals alike.

In Ethics in Planning, Martin Wachs explores the often-overlooked ethical dimensions of planning practices, emphasizing that ethical considerations permeate nearly every decision made in the field. He critiques the tendency of some planners to confine ethical discussions to straightforward questions about the propriety of their daily activities. This narrow focus not only limits the conversation surrounding professional ethics but also neglects the broader moral implications embedded in planning methods, policies, and practices.

Wachs categorizes ethical issues in planning into four distinct areas. The first involves the moral implications of bureaucratic practices and the rules governing interactions with clients and supervisors. The second category addresses the ethical judgments planners must make when exercising their administrative discretion. The third category delves into the more complex moral implications of the methods and criteria that shape planning techniques and models. Finally, the fourth category highlights the fundamental choices society faces regarding significant policy alternatives.

Ethics in Planning serves as a comprehensive resource, featuring a collection of representative papers that reflect the current state of ethical thinking in the field. It is designed to be an essential text for university-level survey courses on professional ethics in planning, while also providing valuable material for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of ethical issues. The book is a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse in a field that is increasingly recognized for its importance in shaping communities and policies.