Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents a set of principles to be held in common by certified planners, other practicing planners, appointed and elected officials, and others who participate in the process of planning. It also presents ethical scenarios for group discussion at professional development meetings. The book includes numerous scenarios. Multiple scenarios are included for those portions of the code that practicing planners have identified as being major sources of ethical conflicts on the job. The publication can help professionals clarify their ethical responses to the ever-present challenges of practicing planning. The citizen who expects fair treatment from the "planning process" will not distinguish between the activities of the planning commission and the planning staff in making an assessment of the ethical nature of the work.