Using practice theory to conceptualise balancing and values in urban planning

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite its importance, balancing has received limited attention in planning research. Emphasising the significance of balancing in achieving planning outcomes, we argue that this lack of research hinders the comprehensive analysis of balancing as the basis of planners’ work. This practice review aims to demonstrate that balancing, especially the interplay between balancing and values, is a major element of planning processes from the conceptual perspective of practice theory. Further research on balancing may lead to an enhanced understanding for both scholars and practitioners of how values are invoked in planners’ day-to-day work.