Cognition of feedback loops in a fire-prone social-ecological system

Increasing wildfire severity highlights the need for large-scale shifts in management of fire-prone landscapes. While prior research has focused on cognitive biases, social norms, and institutional disincentives that limit reform, such factors are best understood as components feedback loops operate within complex adaptive systems. We evaluated prominence function embedded maps—beliefs about patterns causal relationships drive system dynamics—elicited from a diverse cross-section stakeholders region U.S. West. demonstrate cognition is rare among individuals, but increasingly prominent aggregations maps, which underscores importance collaborative decision-making. Our analysis further reveals bias toward perception amplifying actions result desirable outcomes, points to areas where progress may be made reforming risk governance.