The Intuitive Role of Emotions in the Landscape Design Process: A Theoretical Explanation Based on Haidt's Perspective

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD Candidate, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University

2 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning,, Shahid Beheshti University,Tehran, Iran

3 Professor, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Landscape design, as a creative and value-driven practice within complex and multidimensional contexts, involves a continuous interplay of intuitive and rational decision-making. Drawing on Jonathan Haidt’s Social Intuitionist Model, this study explores the hidden role of emotions and designers’ intrinsic values in this process.
Materials and Methods: This research adopted a theoretical and explanatory approach. Through conceptual and comparative analysis of selected perspectives in landscape design and Haidt’s theory, which critiques rationalist approaches to decision-making, a conceptual model was developed. This model is grounded in five elements, intuitive orientation, intuitive selection, rational orientation, rational justification, and reflection-in-action, intended to demonstrate the dynamic interaction between intuitive and rational processes.
Results and Conclusion: The proposed model demonstrates that many decisions that appear rational are in fact grounded in intuitive orientations shaped by emotions and values, while reasoning often serves as a post-hoc justification. Cultivating the capacity for reflection-in-action plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of design decisions. By uncovering hidden dimensions of designers’ decision-making, this framework provides a basis for strengthening reflective practices and attention to inner values within the design process, particularly in the context of design education.

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Soffeh

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 September 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 29 December 2024
  • Revise Date: 13 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 21 September 2025

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