Some traditional knowledge systems have evolved
through age-old processes of trial and error. Methods are changed
as adaptations through social learning from mistakes take account
of the interlocking of local management with uncertain cycles of
renewal.
Modern conservation management systems are
adaptive when they follow the logic of repeated management cycles,
where feedback from outcomes is used to modify objectives and
methods for the next round. In this sense conservation management
acknowledges, through scientific knowledge, that the managers at
lease are at one with the greater ecosystem. They operate their
biodiversity action plans within a community of beings.