Comment: Elite Values, Popular Values, and Open Space Policy

Abstract

In this article, the author identifies an assumption about public open space which seems central to the thinking of those active in its provision. The assumption is that people of different social stations value open space for very different reasons. Then, he introduces and discusses data which call this belief into question. Finally, the author argues that the assumption is widely accepted because of the practical advantages it confers on the open space actors themselves, be they private citizens or public officals.