Outside Reading #3 - Rachel Carter

"Wilderness and the American Mind" by Roderick Nash is an interesting book that describes the beginnings of environmental thought and conservation. Nash shows that undeveloped wilderness is something possessing intrinsic value and is worth preserving. As illustrated, a large number of countries have followed America's lead in establishing nationl parks and wildlife preserves. All over the world, the notion of wilderness and nature posaessing value contributes to a feeling of commonplace.

While I was reading for my research paper, I adopted a very negative view of our current society in terms of our appreciation for nature. However, Nash provides an optimistic perspective. He claims that wilderness produces deep sentiments in American history. To us, it seriously is more than just a political movement originated a few decades ago. Rather, it is a love that will ensure as a vital element of our country.