ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how a planner can deal with the problems of loyalty to the jurisdiction and agency, of dissent and compromise, of building effectiveness as an advisor to politicians, citizens, and other agencies, and of working as a regulator of business interests. A planner's primary obligation is to serve the public interest. While the definition of the public interest is formulated through continuous debate, a planner owes allegiance to a conscientiously attained concept of the public interest, which requires these special obligations: a planner must have special concern for the long-range consequences of present actions. A planner must strive for excellence of environmental design and endeavor to conserve the heritage of the built environment. A planner must exercise independent professional judgment on behalf of clients and employers. A planner must protect and enhance the integrity of the profession and must be responsible in criticism of the profession. A planner must strive to continue professional education.
