ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the development of forest research and management approaches, spanning the 'ways of knowing and doing' spectrum and searches for both general large-scale solutions and specific adapted solutions. It explores transformations in the understanding of forests as natural resources, and in the meanings and contextual uses of key concepts. The evolution of such notions is connected to both transtemporal thinking and the forest arena. In turn, changing understandings of the forest and its wider functions have played a key role in shaping common ways of thinking and the formation of forest social contracts. The forest owners must be selective, and carefully consider the knowledge and management actions that are relevant and meaningful for their own forest practice. Although scientific forestry can be seen as a rationalistic, top-down and controlling activity, it included other aspects. The main priority remained ecological understanding that would facilitate establishment of rational forest management and improve timber production.
