GENERAL SYSTEMS-THEORY, CULTURAL-CHANGE, AND A HUMAN-SCIENCE FOUNDATION FOR PLANNING AND DESIGN

This paper integrates the knowledge-base concerning systems, their beh avior and structure, and the management of complex systems - to provid e insight to physical planning and design in equilibrium and rapidly-c hanging conditions. It contributes to the redefinition of the professi ons of physical planning and design; and the establishment of their hu man science foundations. This paper begins with a description of gener al systems theory, and the types of organizational structures that eme rge in systems that are either in a state of equilibrium, controlled c hange, or chaos. It addresses the changes in system dynamics that occu r as a culture moves from a condition of equilibrium or slow evolution ary change, to one of profound, rapid change. Conceptual approaches to decision-making to address these changing conditions are explored, wi th a focus on strategies to manage change and retard its rate, or conv ersely to maximize rate of change with reduced ability to manage that change. The paper presents the recent history of South Africa, Value S ystems Theory and the differential manner in which people image the wo rld - in an effort to establish intergroup harmony. It introduces prob lems that are emerging due to different value systems and need satisfa ction; and on-going efforts to facilitate rapid paradigmatic change th rough equilibrium processes. The paper addresses recent efforts at the national level, roadblocks to change, and ''change triggers'' that ca n facilitate that change. It addresses case-study research to identify urbanization ''delivery models'' that can facilitate change at the lo cal community-planning level. This paper develops the scientific basis within which to address urban planning and design as community facili tation, and as the management of ecological and human health. It estab lishes the need for a human science foundation for physical planning a nd design.