Implications of environmental complexity for science and policy

• Theoretical as well as empirical reevaluations of nature are occurring in response to failures to predict environmental changes, recent developments in systems theory, and new research into environmental attitudes. At present, holistic concepts in ecological theory are marked by dissension, and environmental policy is beset with turmoil — both situations are due in part to differing perceptions of the role of complexity in natural systems. This article identifies and analyses links between changing scientific perspectives on nature and emerging perceptions of environmental policies. It is argued that because society faces basic uncertainty in predicting environmental futures, it is time to formulate a fundamentally new risk philosophy, complementary interdisciplinary management approaches, and a more modern attitude towards efficient and renewable resource systems. 

Keyword

NATURAL SCIENCES

NATURVETENSKAP

Natural Resources Management

Naturresurshushållning

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)