This work presents a powerful tool for understanding the challenges facing wilderness in the United States today. Beginning with the premise that land management must be informed by a well-developed wilderness ethic, the authors delve into some of the thorniest problems in environmental ethics, exploring them in clear, straightforward language: What is wilderness? Why should it be protected? Do animals have rights? Do trees? When should wilderness concerns trump individual priorities? The book also provides a fascinating history of the wilderness movement in America and gives a comprehensive survey of the legislation and agency structures that define wild lands management today. Essential reading for land managers, activists, policymakers, or anyone else who cares about the future of wilderness in the United States.
