Humans apart from nature? Wilderness experience and the Wilderness Act

Abstract

Wilderness managers are faced with making judgments about the appropriateness of different types of recreational activities. One of the criteria they use is wilderness dependence-the notion that an activity should be allowed, or privileged if rationing is required, if it depends on a wilderness setting for much of its value. Inherent in this concept is the idea that much of the value of wilderness experience lies in an integration of humans and nature. But the very idea of a modern integrative wilderness experience has recently been attacked by critics, in part based on recent trends in wilderness recreation. Participants in both contemplative and interactive recreation report experiences that belie this critique, suggesting that opportunities for communion with nature are indeed inherent in the wilderness experience. Managing for both types of experiences may therefore be appropriate under the auspices of the Wilderness Act.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT

Citation

Fincher, Mark. 2012. Humans apart from nature? Wilderness experience and the Wilderness Act. In: Cole, David N., comp. Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT. Proc. RMRS-P-66. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station p. 152-157.