D.G. Webster: Adaptive Governance: The Dynamics of Atlantic Fisheries Management

Abstract

Considering the general state of our natural resources and many inefficient regulations, we often wonder, "How did we get into such a mess?" The easiest response is to blame irresponsible stakeholders or corrupt management. Adaptive Governance: the dynamics of Atlantic Fisheries Manage ment offers a more constructive perspective on the topic, with a focus on the historical development of international regulations for managing highly migratory fish species (tuna, swordfish and marlin). If fishery regulations are viewed as a finished product, their complexity and inconsistency can be confusing. However, if governance of fisheries is considered to be adaptive (i.e., developed and improved over time), these inconsistencies become under standable, and even predictable. Webster applies her skills as a social scientist to an in depth analysis and thought-provoking interpretations. The strength of the book is a view of the current set of inconsistent regulations as predictable results of logical behaviors among competing interests. Adaptive Gover nance recognizes that the historical development of fishery regulations often do not fit the expectations of bioeconomic theory, but conform better with 'satisficing' (a blend of satisfying and sufficing) from decision theory. From this alternative perspective, dissatisfaction, delayed manage ment and compromise are viewed as essential precursors to effective resource management, turning the typical 'blame game' on its ear. Although the title suggests a broad review of North Atlantic fisheries, Webster's analysis is limited to the