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This publication proposes that we return to “first principles”--fundamental physical laws of the universe--and think about complex systems from the ground up based on modern scientific theory backed up by practical experience.  Since the days of the American Frontier, our management policies have promoted a one-size-fits-all mentality for large, complex landscapes. Landscape ecologist Charles Curtin argues that instead we need a science-based approach that accounts for the dynamic nature of complex systems and gives local stakeholders a say in their futures. Curtin walks us through foundational concepts of thermodynamics, ecology, sociology, and resilience theory, applying them to real-world examples from years he has spent designing large-scale, place-based collaborative research programs in the United States and around the world.

Physical Geography --- Geology - General --- Geography --- Geology --- Earth & Environmental Sciences --- Open spaces --- Biosphere reserves --- Landscape ecology. --- Biodiversity conservation. --- Conservation. --- Management. --- Biodiversity --- Biological diversity conservation --- Conservation of biodiversity --- Diversity conservation, Biological --- Gender mainstreaming in biodiversity conservation --- Maintenance of biological diversity --- Preservation of biological diversity --- Conservation --- Earth sciences. --- Earth Sciences. --- Earth Sciences, general. --- Conservation of natural resources --- Ecosystem management --- Ecology --- Natural areas --- Land use --- Geography. --- Cosmography --- Earth sciences --- World history --- Geosciences --- Environmental sciences --- Physical sciences

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From climate change to species extinction, humanity is confronted with an increasing array of societal and environmental challenges that defy simple quantifiable solutions. Complexity-based ecology provides a new paradigm for ecologists and conservationists keen to embrace the uncertainty that is pressed upon us. This book presents key research papers chosen by some sixty scholars from various continents, across a diverse span of sub-disciplines. The papers are set alongside first person commentary from many of the seminal voices involved, offering unprecedented access to experts' viewpoints. The works assembled also shed light on the process of science in general, showing how the shifting of wider perspectives allows for new ideas to take hold. Ideal for undergraduate and advanced students of ecology and conservation, their educators and those working across allied fields, this is the first book of its kind to focus on complexity-based approaches and provides a benchmark for future collected volumes.

Ecology --- Ecologists --- Philosophy. --- Vocational guidance.