Communicative Action, Power, and Misinformation in a Site Selection Process

Abstract

In large-scale economic development projects, less powerful groups absorb the majority of negative impacts. One reason is that communication between actors is distorted by misinformation. Forester's (1989) adaptation of Habermas' (1979, 1984) critical theory of communication is used to investigate the role of misinformation and power in the Inner Harbor Navigational Canal Lock site selection process in New Orleans The methods we apply incorporate both deconstructive and nondeconstructive approaches The result is an account of the use of misinformation by actors in the site selection process. We conclude with recommendations to counteract misinformation and help equalize power relations in future development scenarios