ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that values are critically important to the practice of planning; indeed, values permeate every professional issue that the planner is apt to confront. Moreover, the value biases that the planner brings to the analysis—based on social class, education, political philosophy, and other personal characteristics—will likely play a role, no matter how hard he or she tries to keep them in check. Martin Wachs has written about the difficulties planners encounter when they are asked to fudge or cook the numbers, in studies they have conducted, in order to place the city in a more favorable light. National planning organizations have generally served as the definers and enforcers of ethical practice; this function is the responsibility of the American Institute of Certified Planners, whose code of ethics. National organizations often assume responsibility for the development and enforcement of standards of professional ethics.
