Comparing territorial governance
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Abstract
This chapter outlines methodological starting points for the cross-national comparison of territorial governance and spatial planning with examples of major projects. It gives an overview of the history of major cross-national comparative projects drawing on literature spanning almost 50 years. Cross-national comparative studies must address three key methodological challenges. related to: (i) conceptual equivalence between countries and cultures; (ii) the dynamic nature of planning systems as they evolve over time; and (iii) engaging with both formal and informal aspects of planning systems and practices. The chapter gives an overview of the main dimensions that have been employed (or could potentially be employed) to compare territorial governance, mainly between countries but also within countries where different planning systems exist. The dimensions cover the organization of planning systems; characteristics of the operation of planning; and the impact of planning on territorial development.