Reflections on Doxiadis’ Theory of Planning for Human Settlements

Lawrence Wai Chung Lai

doi:10.53910/26531313-E2022822653

Reflections on Doxiadis’ Theory of Planning for Human Settlements

Authors

Lawrence Wai Chung Lai MAPI, FRICS, FHKIS https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8960-2766

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53910/26531313-E2022822653

Keywords:

Doxiadis, human settlments, ekistics, kinetics, planning theory

Abstract

This short paper reflects on why C.A. Doxiadis’ theory of planning for human settlements is a good theory that is human-centred, bottom-up, multi-disciplinary, as well as a practical tool backed by a clear model with unambiguous criteria or measures that can articulate with other tools for planning an open society in a complex world. Within the context of recent commentaries on his theory, practice and teaching, the reflections are based on eight research papers by Doxiadis from which the salient features of his theory are presented with evidence adduced in the form of quotes from his papers according to his viewpoints on history, value, and the science of and action for human settlements.

Author Biography

Lawrence Wai Chung Lai, MAPI, FRICS, FHKIS

Professor Lawrence Lai is a town planner with economics, planning and law degrees. He has developed an internationally recognized profile in the Coasian analysis and neo-institutional economic & planning research. Professor Lai’s research interest also covers the conservation of local military heritage. He and his research team have spent over a decade identifying and locating military constructions and war-time relics with great historical and cultural values in various locations.

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Published

2024-04-26

How to Cite

Lai, L. W. C. (2024). Reflections on Doxiadis’ Theory of Planning for Human Settlements. Ekistics and The New Habitat, 82(2), 43–52. https://doi.org/10.53910/26531313-E2022822653

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Issue

Vol. 82 No. 2 (2022): Ekistics and the New Habitat: Special Issue: Planning Principles (Part 2 of 3)

Section

Scholary Articles

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