For some, the discussion of conflict or coexistence may be a matter of semantics. In terms of working toward solutions, concentrating on mechanisms of coexistence is more positive than mitigating conflicts. However, shifting from conflict to coexistence may not be enough. The conflict-coexistence continuum spans from negative to positive attitudes and/or behaviors, which defines the different degrees of conflict, coexistence, and tolerance that characterize human-wildlife interactions. This framework is the leitmotiv of the session and will set the stage for the other presentations within this session.
The first two presentations focus on conceptualizing coexistence, analysing human-wildlife interactions looking at emotions (Jacobs) and tolerance (Bruskotter) using case studies. Understanding the place wildlife holds in different landscapes is another key theme explored through a carnivore example (Skogen). Finally, the last two presentations will present socio-ecological and landscape approaches (Carter), and planning for coexistence (Marchini) from a social science standpoint to implement coexistence with wildlife. At the end of these presentation there will be a panel discussion regarding the conflict-coexistence continuum and the integration of coexistence in the human wildlife interactions.
1. Understanding emotions as opportunities for and barriers to co-existence with wildlife
This presentation (a) uses generic emotion theory to create an understanding of the mechanisms that explain wildlife-related emotions, (b) provides an overview of research into human emotions towards wildlife to identify both knowledge and knowledge gaps, and (c) discusses opportunities for breaking down barriers to human-wildlife co-existence from the perspective of emotion.
2. Tolerance for Wildlife: A Psychological Perspective
The concept of tolerance for wildlife is explain by drawing upon theory and empirical research from psychology, and interpersonal mechanisms that foster tolerant attitudes and behaviours using wolves in United States as case study.
3. Predators in Human Landscapes
Attitudes toward large carnivores are often embedded in people’s understandings of the landscape. Predators stir controversy in areas where their material impact is less than dramatic, and people who have no personal experience with these species may still be strongly involved in conflicts over them. These conflicts, while social in origin, may have serious consequences for wildlife. Studies in Norway and India have shown that interpretations of landscape change exert a strong influence on willingness to accept large carnivores.
4. Toward an operational framing of coexistence between humans and wildlife through coadaptation.
We present a conceptual framing that emphasizes the importance of adaptive capacities in ecological, social, and institutional systems to achieve human-wildlife coexistence. Disparate epistemologies are integrated to elaborate measurable indicators of coexistence that can guide future conservation decision making. Examples from the around the world are employed to illustrate the utility of our conceptualization of coexistence.
5. Planning for Coexistence in a Complex Human-Dominated World
We address the potential application of strategic planning, combined with the growing fields of scientific modelling and data science, to inform decisions regarding the conflict-to-coexistence continuum and propose a framework for integrating data and stakeholders - planners, researchers, modellers, policy-makers, managers and citizens - in the process of planning for coexistence.
Topics: Social-ecological systems as a framework for conservation management , Topics: Management of Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Large Carnivores in Europe , Topics: Natural Resource and Conservation Stakeholders: Managing Expectations and Engageme
