Dilemmas in general theory of planning
with the introduction of Bob Jessop
Abstract
Th esearch for scientific bases for confronting problems of social policy is bound to fail, because of the naturę of these problems. They are “wicked” problems, whereas science has developed to deal with “tame” problems. Policy problems cannot be defmitively described. Moreover, in a pluralistic society there is nothing like the undisputable public good; there is no objective definition of eąuity; policies that respond to social problems cannot be meaningfully correct or false; and it makes no sense to talk about “optimal solutions” to social problems unless severe ąualifications are imposed first. Even worse, there are no „solutions” in the sense of defłnitive and objective answers.
Keywords
theory of planning; wicked problems; tame problems; social problems; professionals; solutions; postindustrial society
University of California United States
University of California United States
