Defining a Strategic National Agenda on the theory of construction for development

Abstract

In exploring the possibility of establishing a theory of construction for development, this paper reviews concepts of theory and theory formulation, contextualises optimal developmental modalities, describes the role of construction within the context of the social contract, and explores postmodern research approaches. The guiding aim is to develop a research agenda that can lead to the formulation of a new theory of construction for development that is a viable alternative to the traditional doctrines which have long dominated construction and development inquiry and practice. With regard to the theory of construction, the paper finds that where construction theory has been contemporaneously postulated it has explored concepts located mainly in the construction management and production sciences.