Cities and Complexity: Making Intergovernmental Decisions (Cities and Planning)

This book addresses the mismatch between the assumptions of planning professionals and the actual operations of the intergovernmental system. Basing her work not only on empirical research but also years of personal experience, Christensen presents a new theory of the underlying structure and dynamics of the US intergovernmental system. It is designed to help planners and policy makers clarify the obstacles to effective action on behalf of the public good. Planning in a Complex Intergovernmental System Competing Theories of the US Intergovernmental System Interactions among Governmental Institutions Dimensions Structuring the Intergovernmental System Sectoral Dynamics Institutionalized Technological Elaboration and Effects on Area Interests Delusions of Certainty and Their Consequences for Expectations of Government Conducting Public Policy in Conditions of Uncertainty Conclusions for the Intergovernmental System Conclusions for Decision-Making Practice