The concept of resilience is increasingly employed by researchers and policymakers concerned with dynamics of socio-ecological systems. This article provided an in-depth review of the concept of resilience with a particular focus on empirical advancements. The article begins with a discussion on the conceptual underpinnings of the concept of resilience. It then introduces leading empirical approaches and models for examining the resilience of socio-ecological systems. These include the adaptive cycle, the ecological information-based approach, modularity, and diversity. An overview of the strengths, weaknesses, and future research directions of each approach is provided.