ABSTRACT
Frameworks organize diagnostic and prescriptive inquiry, and provide the most general list of variables that should be used in analysis. Frameworks organize diagnostic and prescriptive inquiry, and provide the most general list of variables that should be used in analysis. Theories enable the analyst to specify which elements of the framework are particularly relevant for certain kinds of questions, and to make general working assumptions about these elements. Multi-scale phenomena are particularly prevalent in many natural resource systems and many human institutions. Problems of missing or mismatched institutions can arise because human systems of rules and mechanisms for coordination and control are rooted in history and reflect past and present struggles over the distribution of wealth. Human-made capital (assets) constitute the material and non-material resources actors use to pursue activities. Enforceability reflects the feasibility and cost of achieving conformance to rules.
