Our Philosophy
Understanding the interdependence between people and nature through the lens of social-ecological systems.
At SociECOS, we hold a simple but profound truth: there are no natural systems without people, and no social systems without nature. Social and ecological systems are inseparably intertwined—shaping, sustaining, and transforming each other in a continuous process of co-evolution.
We believe that addressing today’s ecological crises demands new, interdisciplinary, and holistic conceptual approaches that transcend traditional boundaries between the natural and social sciences. Effective biodiversity conservation is not only about protecting species and ecosystems—it must also be about working with, learning from, and supporting the human communities in which biodiversity is embedded. Equally, we recognize that before we are scientists, we are people. In our work, we strive to create an environment of mutual care, trust, and respect, where the wellbeing of our members is valued above the pace of our output. Scientific papers matter, but the people who create them matter more. We see compassion, equity, and support not as optional extras, but as essential conditions for producing meaningful and lasting contributions to science and society.
Our philosophy extends to cultivating a research culture that welcomes diverse perspectives, encourages constructive dialogue, and nurtures both professional and personal growth. We understand that sustainable, creative, and high-impact science can only emerge when individuals feel safe, respected, and inspired.
Our mission is to:
- Advance understanding of human–nature interactions to inform conservation management, planning, and sustainability, with attention to the multidimensional nature of ecosystem services.
- Foster interdisciplinary spaces for dialogue and collaborative learning that enable reflexive thinking and challenge conventional problem-solving approaches.
- Mentor and train future scientists, practitioners, and resource managers to work effectively at the interface of social and ecological systems, grounded in both scientific rigor and human empathy.
