Reflections on Doxiadis’ Theory of Planning for Human Settlements

This short paper reflects on why C.A. Doxiadis’ theory of planning for human settlements is a good theory that is human-centred, bottom-up, multi-disciplinary, as well as a practical tool backed by a clear model with unambiguous criteria or measures that can articulate with other tools for planning an open society in a complex world. Within the context of recent commentaries on his theory, practice and teaching, the reflections are based on eight research papers by Doxiadis from which the salient features of his theory are presented with evidence adduced in the form of quotes from his papers according to his viewpoints on history, value, and the science of and action for human settlements.