ABSTRACT
This chapter conveys a practical understanding of the Theory of Knowledge in Conservation Science. In each section practical conservation examples are provided to help embed understanding. The vagaries of data in the conservation world are discussed to convey the importance of appreciating incomplete information. Sources of knowledge, including traditional knowledge and citizen science, are mentioned. Details and the big picture are discussed in the light of tortoise conservation, the continuum of knowledge with mammal reintroduction in South Asia. The need to understand ‘Systems Behaviour’ is briefly introduced with examples relating to mammal extinctions in the United States and understanding decisions to steer interventions. Temporal and spatial dimensions of knowledge with carnivore conservation in vast landscapes and marine turtles are also presented. Finally, a detailed case describes the Theory of Knowledge applied to a mammal reintroduction programme.
