“... Of Order and Methods”

Abstract

Many aspects of Dutch planning and control have been examined to help determine how successful the Dutch have been in structuring their society for economic development, social advancement and life quality improvement. It would appear they have achieved some measure of success from their efforts. They have shown themselves more innovative than Americans in adjusting to many modern problems. It is not to be assumed that their experiences were entirely unique. In the solution of the population, public-medical, employment, housing, economic and ecological problems the Dutch approach fits into the pattern of her neighboring West European, democratic-socialist societies. An assessment of Dutch planning and control could be of possible value, offering suggestions to assist us in a more intelligent ordering of our own American economic, social and environmental affairs. Moreover it would be worthwhile to discover what permits the Dutch easy adjustment to so many modern problems that Americans find difficulty in accepting.