Final answer:
The problems that lie outside the reference of most conservation policies are social and cultural issues, as they are often undervalued in conservation efforts, which tend to bypass the complex interplay between society and natural ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Blaikie, the kinds of problems that lie 'outside the terms of reference of most conservation policies' mentioned on page 53 are social and cultural problems. The texts referenced speak to the complexity of biodiversity conservation as a multifaceted issue that intertwines with socio-economic, political, and ecological factors. Social research in conservation often explores the interrelationships between human activities and natural systems, identifying that the success of conservation efforts is frequently limited by a lack of understanding of social, economic, and cultural dynamics - aspects that are typically not addressed sufficiently in conservation policies.
Social Ecology echoes this sentiment by highlighting that environmental issues are deeply intertwined with societal issues, suggesting that to tackle ecological problems, one must also address underlying social injustices. Similarly, questions of rights, equity, and the social dimensions of conservation practices underscore the importance of including social research into conservation strategies.