title: Application of chaos theory to solving the problems of social and environmental decline in Lesotho.
abstract: This paper examines the definition of chaos theory and its use in different circumstances. The paper explains that environmental crisis is complex, chaotic and unstable and will remain so unless actions are taken to reverse the trend. It further suggests that chaos theory could be used to interpret the crisis and help identify solutions. By recommending the application of chaos theory to the environmental problems in Lesotho, the paper explores some of the key issues that contribute to and perpetuate the environmental situation, for example, the current land tenure system and the problem of overgrazing. In addition, it identifies appropriate and realistic government policies that could be implemented to address the environmental degradation in the country. The paper concludes that the application of chaos theory may be unable to help solve the environmental crisis in Lesotho unless there is political will and commitment and collective effort from all stakeholders, coupled with an attitudinal change.
authors.affiliation: United Nations Development Programme, UNDP Banjul, PO Box 553, The Gambia. john.o.kakonge@undp.org
authors.forename: John O
authors.initials: JO
authors.lastname: Kakonge
mesh_terms: D000383:Agriculture; D000818:Animals; D000829:Animals, Domestic; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D007927:Lesotho; D017711:Nonlinear Dynamics; D012924:Social Conditions; D012987:Soil
chemical_list: D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D012987:Soil