Discuss the arguments of Chinitz (1990) on whether growth management is ‘good for the town, bad for the nation’ (Journal of the American Planning Association 56, 3–8); and the response by Fischel (1991) and Neuman (1991). What are the reasons behind smart growth? Please use scripture(s) to support the position and integrate within your post and not at the end of the post.
Sample Solution
In his 1990 article "Growth Management: Good for the Town, Bad for the Nation," Benjamin Chinitz argues that growth management policies, which are designed to limit the growth of urban areas, can have negative consequences for the national economy. He argues that these policies can lead to higher housing prices, which can make it difficult for low-income people to afford to live in urban areas. They can also lead to a decrease in the availability of jobs, as businesses may be less likely to locate in areas with growth restrictions.
In response to Chinitz's article, William Fischel (1991) argues that growth management policies can actually be beneficial for the national economy. He argues that these policies can help to protect the environment and conserve resources. They can also help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
Judith Inman Neuman (1991) takes a more nuanced approach to the issue of growth management. She argues that the effects of growth management policies vary depending on the specific policy and the context in which it is implemented. She also argues that the benefits and costs of growth management policies need to be weighed carefully before making a decision about whether or not to implement them.
Smart growth is a planning approach that seeks to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. It is based on the idea that these three goals can be achieved simultaneously, if planning is done carefully. Smart growth policies often include measures such as:
- Increasing density in urban areas: This can help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, while also making it easier for people to walk, bike, or take public transportation.
- Protecting open space: This can help to conserve natural resources and provide places for recreation.
- Encouraging mixed-use development: This can help to create vibrant communities where people can live, work, and shop in the same area.
There are many scriptures that support the position of smart growth. For example, in the book of Genesis, God commands us to "subdue the earth" and "fill it." This suggests that we have a responsibility to use the earth's resources wisely and to protect the environment. In the book of Isaiah, God says that he "takes pleasure in the prosperity of his people." This suggests that economic growth is important, but it should not be pursued at the expense of environmental protection or social equity.
In conclusion, there are a number of arguments for and against growth management policies. The decision of whether or not to implement these policies is a complex one, and it should be made on a case-by-case basis. However, smart growth is a planning approach that can help to balance the economic, environmental, and social goals of communities.thumb_upthumb_downuploadGoogle itmore_vert