PHI 111 — Wilderness Ethics 3 Credits
Exposes students to the complexity of differing values related to wilderness and the concepts of wilderness preservation. It explores the meaning of wilderness and its importance to society through the eyes of major authors such as Leopold, Waterman and Nash. Wilderness ethics encourages discussion focused on the central question of wilderness preservation for the benefit of people or the benefit of nature and to what extent can or should these be intermingled. The course examines the historical development of the Leave No Trace ethic and the Wilderness Act along with implications of revisions to the landmark act. It further explores local issues that directly impact the future of wilderness areas in Maine and local economies. (45 lec)