CIB2007-39

Defining a Strategic National Agenda on the Theory of Construction for

Development

Llewellyn van Wyk

Theuns Knoetze

ABSTRACT AND KEYWORDS

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.

Having regard to identifying optimal development modalities, the paper finds that these have formed the substance of substantial debate within global forums, and have culminated most recently in the outcome of the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). The paper finds that the role of infrastructure, and by implication, the delivery of that infrastructure, is now recognised as a fundamental keystone of development and poverty alleviation.

With regard to the role of construction within the context of the social contract, the paper finds the main idea of construction to be developmental, a potential theory of construction that generalises and carries to a higher level of abstraction the traditional conception of the social contract as found in Rousseau and Kant.

Having regard for the determination of a strategic research agenda, the paper considers postmodern research approaches. The paper constructs a strategic research agenda matrix against the background of optimal development modalities and construction processes. The conclusion is that a strategic research agenda aimed at developing a new theory of construction can provide an effective response to post-millennial developmental issues.