The Planning Moment: Colonial and Postcolonial Histories

The Planning Moment examines the ways in which plans and planning practices have pervaded recent global history, through a range of disciplines such as the history of science, science and technology studies, colonial and postcolonial studies, urban studies, and the history of knowledge. It reveals the often disruptive and violent processes of erasure in imperial planning and makes visible strategies and techniques by which planning was modified and reappropriated, and by which decolonial futures might be imagined.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2024
Publisher: Fordham University Press

The impact of empires and their legacies on the world has been profound, extending far beyond the boundaries of political geography. Over the past two centuries, the natural and social sciences have emerged as crucial modes of knowledge production for imperial planning. However, these connections have often been overlooked or underappreciated in the broader history of science and its related fields.

In his book, "The Planning Moment," author Itty Abraham seeks to shed light on the intricate ways in which plans and planning practices have shaped recent global history. The book is organized around twenty-seven concise case studies, each exploring the central role of planning in various colonial and postcolonial environments, relationships, and contexts. These case studies draw from a diverse range of disciplines, including the history of science, science and technology studies, colonial and postcolonial studies, urban studies, and the history of knowledge.

Through these case studies, "The Planning Moment" reveals the complex processes of erasure that occurred in imperial planning. It explores how "common sense" was constructed and how the rigidity of planning persisted even after decolonization. The book also highlights the resistance and subversion that often met colonial plans, making visible the strategies and techniques employed to modify and reappropriate planning, as well as the possibilities for imagining decolonial futures.

Contributors to "The Planning Moment" include renowned scholars from around the world, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. The book offers a rich tapestry of insights and analysis, providing a valuable contribution to the field of imperial history and beyond.

In conclusion, "The Planning Moment" is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the profound impact of empires and their legacies on the world. By exploring the connections between the natural and social sciences and imperial planning, the book offers a fresh perspective on recent global history. It challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of the past and to consider the ways in which planning practices continue to shape our world today.

Weight: 649g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781531506629