ABSTRACT
In this chapter I group the diverse contributions to planning knowledge into three discourse arenas linking each of three planning domains. I argue that the planning theory enterprise offers robust knowledge within these arenas, but that this success makes theoretical convergence for all domains unlikely. Instead of seeking integration of discourse about theory and method like the now discredited rational model planning analysts might focus instead on comparing and studying how people practice and teach the craft of plan making. Convergence depends on the practical steps colleagues take to learn and judge how and what plan makers do. This shifts the goal of planning theory from establishing an intellectual foundation for planning to foster better ideas for plan making. This shift does not displace or replace the fruitful explosion of planning knowledge binding field, movement and discipline together. We can and should build practical pathways for convergence even as we foster the scope and depth of specialized knowledge in diverse discourse arenas.
