American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the primary obligation of a planner?

1. To serve the public interest

2. To maximize profit for their employer

3. To ensure all plans are politically correct

4. To follow every client directive without question

The correct answer is: To serve the public interest

The primary obligation of a planner is to serve the public interest. This principle is foundational to the practice of planning, as it emphasizes the planner's role in advocating for the needs and well-being of the community rather than prioritizing individual or private interests. In fulfilling this obligation, planners consider a wide range of factors, including equity, sustainability, and the long-term health of the environment and society. By focusing on the public interest, planners engage with diverse stakeholders, gather input from community members, and work to ensure that their plans reflect the values and needs of the broader community. This commitment often requires balancing conflicting interests and making decisions that promote the common good, even when it may not align with the desires of specific clients or organizations. In contrast, maximizing profit for an employer, ensuring political correctness, and uncritically following client directives can lead to decisions that prioritize financial gain, social conformity, or client preferences over the welfare of the public. Therefore, the essence of a planner's role involves navigating these various pressures while steadfastly advocating for the interests of the community as a whole.