Exploring Underpinnings of Forest Conflicts: A Study of Forest Values and Beliefs in the General Public and Among Private Forest Owners in Sweden

Abstract

Drawing on a hierarchical cognitive structure, the aim of this study was to compare forest values and beliefs in the general public and among forest owners in Sweden. Based on questionnaire data (n = 1,805), intergroup differences were identified on different cognitive levels. For example, while the forest owners emphasized production values more than the general public, the difference was smaller regarding more specific beliefs concerning profitability in forestry. In contrast, the general public emphasized recreation more than the forest owners, although the divide was mainly evident for certain recreation activities. While results demonstrated overlapping beliefs concerning owners’ right to decide over their forest, larger differences were found regarding the rights of other actors (e.g., the general public). Furthermore, a cluster analysis based on forest values and forest-specific beliefs demonstrated heterogeneous groups cutting across the original group dichotomy. The implications for understanding underpinnings of forest conflicts are discussed.