This module contextualises and conceptualises planning as a professional activity with theoretical, practical, ethical, and political dimensions. It considers the institutional context for planning across different spatial scales. Political concepts such as democracy and legitimacy are explored and related to planning. Theories which have arisen since the foundation of planning as a modern enterprise are reviewed and related to planning practice. Teaching and learning are delivered through lectures and two student-led workshops. The module develops a reflective capacity on the relationship between planning theory and real-world examples of planning policy and practice. A written assignment requires students to observe and reflect on a local government committee meeting, and a written exam assesses knowledge on planning theory. By the end of the module, students will be able to explain and reflect on the political and ethical nature of spatial planning and reflect on how planners work within democratic decision-making structures.