After successful completion of the course, students are able to understand central discourses and debates within urban and regional theory. A focus of this lecture series is the work with theories, concepts and approaches that explaing and contextualise urban, regional and spatial development. Further these theories and concepts will be reflected upon in the broader academic debate, and in view of contemporary developments. 

The lectures centre around one or two seminal writings, which have influenced academic debates in urban and regional development theories. The lectures will outline in what ways these contributions have changed the academic discourse, and how they have been received. Focus will be given to theories and concepts of (1) planning and urban transformation, (2) urban theory, (3) conceptualisation of space and territory, as well (4) contemporary developments. 

The lecture will be held in person. Readings will be made available via TUWEL. It is expected that guest lectures can be included. 

Exemplary Texts:

Lynch, K. (1964) The image of the city. Harvard MIT

Ritter, H.W.J.  and Melvin M. Webber (1973). Dilemmas in a General Theory of Planning. Policy Sciences, Vol. 4, No. 2 (Jun., 1973), pp. 155-169

Castells, M. (1996)The rise of the network society. Wiley

Massey, D. (2005) For Space. SAGE

written exam on the understanding, reflection and implementation of the theoretical concepts presented

questions: Questions of understanding and definitions / interpretative  and discussion questions

Basic understanding of regional science and macroeconomics