Nondemocratic Nonplanning: The French Experience

In: Policy sciences: integrating knowledge and practice to advance human dignity ; the journal of the Society of Policy Scientists, Band 7, Heft 3, S. 371-385

Abstract

Under C. de Gaulle & G. Pompidou, the French executive claimed that its Economic & Social Development Plans fitted an ideal model of democratic planning. This was defined in terms of its being democratic in both process & substance, devised after wide consultations & aimed at the welfare of the nation as a whole. It also was described as outlining a coherent system of actions which could realistically be undertaken during each planning period & which was rationally aimed at further long-range goals. Analysis of the Plan as written & executed, & of its preparation process, shows that it met neither the standard of democracy nor that of planning. This historical review suggests that it is unlikely that democratic planning as an ideal will ever be achieved or approached in France. 1 Table. Modified HA.