American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

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Which individual contributed to the foundation of regional planning theory in 1915?

  1. Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.

  2. Harland Bartholomew

  3. Patrick Geddes

  4. Edward Bassett

The correct answer is: Patrick Geddes

The contribution of Patrick Geddes in 1915 is significant as he is often recognized as a pioneer in the field of regional planning. Geddes' seminal work and ideas centered around the integration of social, economic, and environmental dimensions within the planning process. In 1915, he published "Cities in Evolution," which emphasized the importance of understanding urban areas within the context of their surrounding regions and ecosystems. His approach favored a holistic view of urban planning by advocating for the consideration of geographic, historical, and cultural factors in the planning process. Geddes is also credited with popularizing the concept of "region" as a central unit of planning, proposing that planners should view cities not in isolation but as part of a larger regional system. This idea laid a foundational framework for subsequent developments in regional planning theory, influencing both academics and practitioners in the field. His emphasis on a comprehensive perspective in planning resonates in many contemporary planning approaches, making his contributions pivotal in the evolution of urban and regional planning disciplines.