Procedural rationality and ethical theory

Abstract

This paper is based on one given by Professor Faludi at the Conference on Planning Theory at Torino, Italy in 1986. It answers criticisms of his procedural planning theory voiced by various theorists and enjoined by the authors of the call for papers for the conference. The paper argues that the misgivings voiced by critics have their parallel in ethical theory and develops the view that procedural rationality and utilitarianism share an ethical principle. The paper concludes with a call for an end to sterile debate and an acceptance of different modes of argument.