Inquiry and Design for Spatial Planning. Three Paradigms for Planning Research in Late Modern and Contemporary Cities

In the field of spatial planning research one can find a large variety of traditions and, lately, a mushrooming of approaches (see du Toit, Chapter 2.1, this volume), which interpret the crucial nexus between knowledge and action in different ways (see Friedmann’s seminal work, 1987). In this chapter, distinct features of three research paradigms, which are to some extent complementary – namely, empirical-analytical (or positivist), interactive and project-oriented – will be discussed and compared with particular reference to this nexus. The positivist approach to planning is presented by highlighting how research is intended as a preliminary means to provide decision making with scientific knowledge. The interactive paradigm is considered with reference to contemporary urban planning, recognizing an intrinsic political dimension of planning, which influences cognitive processes as well. A third perspective consists of critical approaches that in recent decades have emerged at the crossroads between urban policymaking and spatial design. Drawing on the relationships between these paradigms, planning research is considered as a particular interpretation of policy inquiry – namely, as an interactive arena for producing usable knowledge not only through traditional urban analysis but also through explorative projects. This position introduces new challenges for planning theory and research.