Case Study: Ethics in Urban Planning

INTRODUCTION TO WACHS (1989) ARTICLE

The article "When Planners Lie with Numbers" by Martin Wachs discusses the conflict that planners typically face when confronted with data: on the one hand they must be scientists who deal carefully with data; on the other hand, they must be advocates because planning so often involves politics. This conflicted approach to data means that planners are tasked with adjusting data to fit political aims at times. The problem with this, of course, is that ethical principles surrounding the use of data and statistics in the field of planning would have it that all data be dealt with honestly and apolitically. The reality is that planning cannot and does not take place outside of politics. And that is why, as Wachs (1989) explains, the very code of ethics used by planners is seems to embody the conflict (p. 477). The author argues that planners must adhere to ethical principles, such as honesty, fairness, and impartiality, when using data and statistics in their work. Misuse of data and statistics can lead to incorrect decisions, false conclusions, and a loss of public trust and confidence in the planning profession. The author also highlights the importance of transparency and critical evaluation in the use of data and statistics. He emphasizes the need for planners to be trained in ethical data use, for institutions to develop policies and procedures to ensure ethical data use, and for planners to be vigilant in evaluating data and to be transparent about their methods and conclusions.

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS USING ETHICS IN DATA USE AS CITED BY THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PLANNERS

The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is a professional organization for planners and is the largest planning organization in North America. The AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct outlines the ethical principles that planners must adhere to in their professional practice. It has three main parts: principles, rules of conduct, and enforcement. The first two parts concern this topic here. The AICP (2021) states that the code focuses specifically on defining the aspirational principles for all those who participate in the planning process, whether as planners, as advisory bodies, or as decision-makers (Section A); second, defining the rules of practice and behavior to which all members of the American Institute ofCertified Plannersare held accountable(Section B). The code emphasizes the importance of honesty, fairness, objectivity, and impartiality in the use of data and statistics in planning. Planners are expected to use data in a transparent manner and to avoid distorting or manipulating data to advance their own interests. AICP does not define datathough for the purposes of this paper data may be defined as any information including statistics, studies, surveys, or other forms of quantified evidence used to inform decision making related to planning activities. What AICP does do is frame the way in which planners might use data. This framework approach consists of condemning conflicts of interest, improper influence, abuse of position, and honoring honesty and fair dealing (AICP Code of Ethics, 2021). According to the AICP code of ethics, planners must always strive for accuracy and objectivity when utilizing data. It should be noted that this should in theory apply to all forms of data, including statistical, economic, environmental, and social data. In addition, the code states that planners should not knowingly make false or misleading statements when using data. This would therefore theoretically include any attempt to manipulate or distort data to support a particular outcome.

However, as Wachs (1989) points out, and as other researchers like Lauria and Long (2019) have shown, it is one thing to state these principles and rules in writingand quite another thing to actually ensure that they are adequate in the real world. Wachs (1989) for instance gives two examples of real world cases that put the code to test: first, a public opinion survey is done regarding a new real estate development, and the planner is urged to publicize results that are favorable to the project, while remaining silent about those that are critical of it (p. 477). The second real world case is this: A benefit-cost study shows that the costs of dredging a harbor will exceed the economic benefits of the project, so indirect benefits are enumerated that are large enough to result in an excess of benefits over costs. This project has long been favored by the governor (Wachs, 1989, p. 477). In both examples, the planner is pushed and pulled between getting politicians or businessmen what they want by cherry-picking the dataor rather by being selective about how it is communicated. The AICP states first and foremost in Section B that We shall not deliberately fail to provide adequate, timely, clear and accurate information on planning issues (AICP Code of Ethics, 2021). Do the planners in either of the cases mentioned by Wachs fail in this duty? Do they fail by withholding information? Or can they claim that the data they do publish is accurateeven though it is not all the data. Are planners obliged to publish or act on all the data? These are problems identified by Wachs that the code itself fails to adequately address.

The Bible, however, is clear on what approach an honest Christian should take when acting ethically with data. Acts 20:28 states, Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood....

Thus, to address the ethical issues associated with the misuse of statistics, statistical methods, and data, there are several steps that can be taken. First, planners must be trained in ethical data use and must be held accountable for adhering to ethical principles. Second, institutions and organizations must develop policies and procedures to ensure that data is collected and used in a transparent and impartial manner. Third, planners must be vigilant in critically evaluating data and must be transparent about their methods and conclusions. Finally, institutions and organizations must provide resources and support for planners who encounter ethical dilemmas and must encourage open and honest communication about ethical issues (Klosterman, 1980).

From a biblical viewpoint, planning is a responsible and important part of our stewardship of God's creation. The Bible emphasizes the importance of wise and responsible use of resources and the need to care for the vulnerable and marginalized members of society. Proverbs 21:5 states, The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. This verse underscores the importance of careful planning and responsible use of resources. Additionally, James 2:15-16 states, If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and filled, without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? This verse highlights the importance of considering the needs of others in our planning and decision-making processes.

CONCLUSION

The Bible speaks extensively about planning and the importance of wise decision-making. Proverbs 16:9 states In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. This verse emphasizes the need for us to carefully consider our decisions and to plan according to Gods will. In addition, Proverbs 15:22 states Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. This verse encourages us to seek advice when formulating plans and to ensure that we are taking all available information into consideration. Finally, Proverbs 19:21 states Many are the plans in a persons heart, but it is the LORDs purpose that prevails. This verse reminds us that ultimately, Gods plans are the ones that will come to fruition, no matter how carefully we plan. Ultimately, one can see that the biblical perspective should encourage planners to be wise in their decision-making and to seek Gods guidance as they plan. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and being honest and objective when using data. As such, it is essential for planners to adhere to the code of ethics established by the AICP and to avoid any attempts to manipulate or distort data. Doing so will ensure that planning is conducted in an ethical…