Introduction to Urban Planning Theory and Social Justice

How do we build cities that serve everyone, not just the privileged few? Modern urban planning requires a deep understanding of advocacy, equity, and the social impact of spatial decisions. This course introduces you to the core theories of democratic planning, focusing on how planners can act as advocates for underrepresented communities. You will transition from understanding basic urban planning terminology to critically analyzing how policy decisions shape physical neighborhoods. By examining foundational texts on advocacy planning, you will learn to evaluate urban policies through a lens of social justice and community empowerment. What you'll learn: - Understand the core principles of advocacy planning and democratic citizenship in urban spaces - Analyze how planning decisions impact diverse socioeconomic groups - Evaluate the role of the planner as an advocate rather than a neutral technician - Apply theoretical frameworks to modern urban challenges like housing equity and community-led development - Formulate structured arguments on planning ethics and public participation This course begins with key historical definitions and foundational theories before moving into guided analytical exercises that challenge you to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. You will read structured explanations, analyze historical arguments, and engage with deep discussion questions designed to build your critical thinking skills. This introductory course is designed for beginners in urban studies, sociology, or public policy, with no prior planning experience required. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in equitable urban planning.