Theories in landscape ecology. An overview of theoretical contributions merging spatial, ecological and social logics in the study of cultural landscapes

Context Landscape ecology is endowed with a wealth of accumulated insights into how spatial, ecological and social research can be fruitfully combined and synthesised. This has the potential to contribute significantly to how cultural landscapes are observed, analysed, conceptualised and explained. Objectives This article provides an overview of theories in landscape ecology relevant to the study of cultural landscapes. Based on a review of selected contributions formulated since the field's first inception, it is outlined how theory was developed within the field and how proven methods of theory generation can inspire further development. Methods A systematic review covering historical and contemporary theoretical contributions to landscape ecology was conducted. Theories were analysed to uncover by what methods they were formulated. On this basis, an overview of theories in landscape ecology relevant to the study of cultural landscapes was developed. Results A total of 32 theories were included in the review and described. Four pathways of theory development characteristic for the way knowledge is accumulated in landscape ecology were identified. These pathways exhibit modes of knowledge transfer between observations and actions taking place in concrete empirical contexts, knowledge which is transferable across contexts, as well as generally applicable concepts. An annotated overview of primary and secondary sources is provided. Contemporary literature building on the theories was identified, linking sources of conceptual inspiration to the current state of the art. Conclusions The review illustrates that a wealth of complementary theories exists in the field, creating a condition of theoretical multiplicity. Key theories and tendencies for theory development are outlined, and it is discussed how theoretical advancement in the study of cultural landscapes may be improved.