Central planning is a concept in economics where the government controls and regulates the production and distribution of goods and services. The spelling of this word follows the standard English pronunciation rules. "Central" is pronounced /ˈsɛntrəl/ with the emphasis on the first syllable and the final "l" is silent. "Planning" is pronounced /ˈplænɪŋ/ with the emphasis on the second syllable and the final "g" is pronounced as a hard "g." Together, the word is pronounced /ˈsɛntrəl ˈplænɪŋ/.
Central planning is an economic system wherein the government or a central authority exercises control over the production, distribution, and allocation of goods and services within an economy. In this system, the state assumes the responsibility for planning and coordinating all economic activities, aiming to achieve specific goals and objectives set by the government.
Central planning typically involves detailed regulations and directives that dictate the production levels, resource allocation, pricing, and distribution of products and services. The government often plays a dominant role in ownership and control of industries, including crucial sectors such as energy, transportation, and agriculture. It dictates the terms of production, employment, and trade, while also determining the distribution of resources and income.
One of the main aims of central planning is to ensure social welfare and address inequalities by providing access to essential goods and services to all members of society. Proponents argue that central planning allows for more equitable distribution of wealth and resources, reduces market failures, and allows economies to function more efficiently by minimizing wasteful competition. Critics, on the other hand, contend that central planning tends to be less flexible and responsive to changing market conditions and individual preferences, leading to inefficiencies, lack of innovation, and limited personal freedoms.
Central planning has been implemented in various countries throughout history, particularly during the 20th century, with models such as socialism and communism being central to these economic systems. However, the effectiveness and sustainability of central planning have been subjects of intense debate and have experienced significant shifts and reforms in many countries over time.
The term "central planning" is composed of two words: "central" and "planning".
"Central" comes from the Latin word "centralis", meaning "pertaining to a center". It was derived from the Latin word "centrum", which means "center". The word "central" refers to something that is located in the center or considered the main point or focus.
"Planning" comes from the Old French word "plan", which means "a flat surface" or "a sketch". It was derived from the Latin word "plannum" or "planna", meaning "a level or flat surface". The word "planning" refers to the act of making a detailed arrangement or course of action in advance.
Therefore, the term "central planning" refers to the process or action of creating a detailed arrangement or course of action that is centralized or controlled from a center or main authority.