This work examines theories (models) of how systems (those of humans, nature, and combined human-natural systems) function, and attempts to understand those theories and how they can help researchers develop effective institutions and policies for environmental management.

Bringing together leading thinkers on the subject, this book examines how to develop and examine the concept of panarchy, and to consider how it can be applied to human, natural, and human-natural systems. Throughout, contributors seek to identify adaptive approaches to management that recognize uncertainty and encourage innnovation while fostering resilience. Tables, figures, & index.