The underlying concepts of ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) have been considered for over a century. This chapter discusses broad, disciplinary perspectives on EBFM, noting how the topic has advanced, morphed, and evolved from debates over “what and why” to “how.” Several definitions of EBFM are provided, with a discussion on the past couple of decades for how this concept has developed. A brief exploration of policies related to EBFM is undertaken, with particular emphasis on the U.S.’s EBFM Road Map. The rationale for and obstacles to EBFM are also discussed, with the aim to spur further discussion on how EBFM can be more fully implemented and the benefits from it realized.