The Ecological Citizen: Confronting human supremacy

What is wilderness? (A definition)

Wilderness refers to large, intact natural areas in which ecological processes function with minimal human interference. Wilderness nurtures abundant wildlife populations, ensuring their genetic diversity and proper dispersal, which in turn supports species resilience, complete trophic webs (including apex predators), and evolutionary processes. Thus, conserving wilderness is vital for biodiversity, scientific research, and inspiring a deep sense of wonder. However, wild places face challenges from two main groups: those who seek to exploit them for profit and academics who question their very existence.

While developers and resource extractors have long opposed conservation efforts, postmodern scholars argue that uninhabited wilderness is a construct shaped by colonial and Romantic ideals. They argue that this narrative has overshadowed indigenous land-use history. And while some academics critique only the cultural associations of wilderness, this discourse can still weaken real-world protections, ultimately benefiting those who seek to harm the wild. Such an alliance is especially dangerous when supported by anthropocentric social constructivism, which considers the external reality of nature a mere product of the human mind.

Ecocentric thinkers maintain that, although human influence has always existed – and the term "wilderness" should be seen as a celebration of indigenous connection to the land rather than a rejection of it – the existence of remote and expansive wild areas must nevertheless be acknowledged. Ultimately, wilderness, rather than a rigid dichotomy, exists on a continuum: some areas are more influenced by humans, while others remain largely untouched and deserve strong protection to maintain their ecological integrity.

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For further reading, see the following:

Callicott B and Nelson M, eds. (2008) The Wilderness Debate Rages On, University of Georgia Press.

Washington H (2019) A Sense of Wonder Towards Nature: Healing the Planet through Belonging, Routledge.

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The Ecological Citizen: Confronting human supremacy

What is wilderness? (A definition)

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