Theory(izing)/practice: The model of recursive cultural adaptation

Abstract

Although planning researchers and practitioners may see planning theory as interesting, its utility for addressing ‘real’ planning practice remains moot. A model is proposed that draws on Bourdieu’s concept of habitus that collapses both the agency/structure problematic and the theory/practice divide. This model draws on the socio-developmentalism of Vygotsky and the philosophical insights of Wittgenstein that are brought together to understand innovation for sustainability in a master-planned community. This is not a one-to-one borrowing of theory from another discipline to shed light on planning processes, but a response to a particular planning problem that draws on multiple conceptual frameworks. The propositions of the model include, first, that practices are embodied social structures that aconsciously define ‘the way things are done around here’; second, that existing practices prime our responses to change; and third, that agency is a bid to either extend or defend one’s practices. The implications for planning professionals and researchers are discussed.