Urban Practices, Policy Tools, and the Poverty of Planning Theory

Abstract

by Pier Carlo Palermo

The second paper, "Urban Practices, Policy Tools, and the Poverty of Planning Theory" by Pier Carlo Palermo, suggests that current urban planning theory must be questioned since today it is lacking identity and coherence, while accumulating diverse approaches and experiences, in a rather confused and eclectic framework.
The paper argues that specific paradigms in architecture and policy studies can contribute to challenge planning theory and practice. In this regard, the hypothesis of developing tool analysis in the urban planning and policy field entails a pragmatic, critical and project-oriented attitude toward policy design.