Thinking conjuncturally about ideology, housing and English planning

Inch, A. and Shepherd, E. (2020) Thinking conjuncturally about ideology, housing and English planning. Planning Theory, 19 (1). pp. 59-79. ISSN 1473-0952 doi: 10.1177/1473095219887771

Abstract/Summary

This paper explores the value of Stuart Hall’s approach to conjunctural analysis for examining the complex relations between ideology and planning. By “thinking conjuncturally” we explore planning as a site where multiple social, economic and political forces coalesce; ideology is one of these forces whose role and influence must be tracked alongside others. To illustrate this we draw on recent and ongoing planning reforms in England and their relationship with housing development. Highlighting the faltering role of a particular ideological formation in ‘suturing together contradictory lines of argument and emotional investments’ (Hall, 2011, 713) around housing and planning, the paper draws attention to planning as a space where ideological struggle takes place within the frame of a broader, contingent cultural hegemony. This struggle may help to reaffirm that hegemony but it can also open space for alternative visions to be articulated, with potential to transform dominant logics of planning and reveal routes to practical and progressive action.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-pure-test.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/86688
Identification Number/DOI	10.1177/1473095219887771
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Henley Business School > Real Estate and Planning Central Services
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