Planning Theory· 2026Q1
Planning as redescription: Toward a neopragmatist theory of planning
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- Q1SCImago
- 2026year
Short summary
This paper proposes a neopragmatist theory, reframing spatial planning not as expert application or optimization, but as a fallibilist practice of negotiating spatial problems through new vocabularies and metaphors.
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Abstract
This paper outlines a neopragmatist theory of planning. It argues that spatial planning operates under plurality, uncertainty, and conflict and cannot be understood as expert application, means–ends optimization, or consensus production. Following Richard Rorty, planning is redescribed as a fallibilist, legally and democratically legitimized practice of working with vocabularies, metaphors, and redescriptions that make spatial problems, possibilities, and futures negotiable. Drawing on Ralf Dahrendorf, the paper conceptualizes planning as affecting life chances by expanding or restricting options and stabilizing, transforming, or damaging ligatures. It offers a metatheoretical vocabulary for reflecting on planning’s usefulness, limits, conflicts, responsibilities, and side effects.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Planning Theory, 2026 · DOI ↗
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