While there is growing evidence of the importance of effective marine conservation programs that address both ecological and social concerns, there is still a dearth of evidence concerning the social mechanisms that can promote or hinder such programs. Some studies have correctly suggested that there is a need to increase attention to the social component of marine protected areas (MPA), yet few have developed a systematic way to analyze and determine particular characteristics that influence an individual's decision whether to accept or reject conservation.

To provide a way forward, I present findings from research conducted on the Caribbean islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina, Colombia, where I used a political ecology framework to examine environmental problems and institutions both at a macro and micro level, and social network analysis and regression analysis to determine the rationale on which individuals base their decisions regarding marine conservation programs. In particular, because MPAs most often are located in close proximity to coastal areas where fishing is a way of life, I focus attention on artisanal fishermen's livelihood approach and their social networks to identify critical interpersonal relationships and individual attributes that affect their position vis-a-vis conservation.

Findings show that complex environmental policies create distrust within artisanal fishing communities and that trust in government institutions is one of the variables that most affects fishermen's acceptance of resource management programs. Findings also indicate that knowledge of declining marine resources does not necessarily increase fishermen's willingness to conserve. Social conditions, including lack of alternatives and the need to meet day-to-day necessities, often influence an individual's decisions, despite their understanding of possible long-term consequences of their actions. In addition, findings show that while social networks are critical for information sharing, building and maintaining important interpersonal relationships, and in influencing an individual's decision to accept or reject management programs, networks alone do not determine their attitudes or actions; a number of variables working in tandem dictate their behavior and willingness to cooperate.

The social, political, and ecological complexities of marine resource management addressed here stress the importance of supporting robust social science research on the effects of conservation programs. This dissertation also emphasizes that both the social and natural sciences can contribute a wealth of knowledge about the interface between the human and natural dimensions of conservation, and that they can collectively produce management strategies that both support healthy ecosystems and sustainable livelihoods. Therefore, I present a comprehensive way to understand local communities and the possible outcomes of MPA designation, and provide a direction for future social science research on marine conservation.