Optimal Central Planning in 'Competitive Solution'

This essay originated from the discussions of the role of central plan in an economic system with a functioning market mechanism. Such discussions emerged because of the implementation of the 'New Economic System'in Czechoslovakia. Under the old system, the role of the plan was considered clear and well defined. The introduction of the new system reopened controversies that had been discussed years ago. Can central planning be combined with market mechanism? Should the market be subordinated to the plan or vice versa? What is the relation between conscious activity and spontaneity in the process of economic evolution?