VALUE PROBLEMS IN THE QUEST FOR SANCTION IN SOCIAL PLANNING

Watts, Thomas Dale

Publication

VALUE PROBLEMS IN THE QUEST FOR SANCTION IN SOCIAL PLANNING

Watts, Thomas Dale

Abstract

At all stages in the social planning operation values play a decisive role. Dahn's six value dilemmas confronting the planner are explored, with two added: planner values are often indistinguishable from the escape from controversy and are unwilling to reveal monopol istic and repressive atmospheres and situations in society. If Mnrcuse and the Frankfurt School are correct in characterizing society as repressive, then the obligation of the planner accelerates even more to the forefront - to represent the most liberating of values. Rein's three planning strategies are traced: rational analysis {knowledge power}, citizen participation, and elite consensus, with the accompanying value difficulties of each.