The role of culture in land system science

Land system science (LSS) has substantially advanced understanding of land dynamics throughout the world. However, studies that explicitly address causative role culture in systems have been fairly limited relative to those examining other structural dimensions (e.g. markets, policies, climate). In this paper, we aim start a discussion on how better include LSS. Through four examples, show aspects influence myriad ways. Building existing causal models, propose conceptual framework for use and summarize promising methodological innovations exploring it further. We conclude with some thoughts study its integration through reflexive, locally grounded approaches, while challenging, provides new opportunities development