A Choice Theory of Planning

Abstract Planning is defined as the process for determining appropriate future action. The choices which thus constitute the planning process are made at three levels: first, the selection of ends and criteria; second, the identification of a set of alternatives consistent with these general prescriptives, and the selection of a desired alternative; and third, guidance of action toward determined ends. Values are inescapable elements of any rational decision-making process, or any exercise of choice. Since choice permeates the whole planning sequence, a clear notion of the ways in which choices are made, and of the ends pursued, must lie at the heart of the planner's task. Explication of all such determinations reduces arbitrariness. The theory presented is a general one, applying to all fields, and is not restricted to planning in an urban context.