Wilderness and the American Mind

If we ever needed a book, who's author could tell us where we've been, how we got here and what could be...this it! It's a must read for anyone who loves nature and cares about the environment.I originally found this title in one of backpacking magazines as a highly recommended read...I am so glad I did! If you've read Thoreau or Muir, you'll find them here, their words and ideas and then some.You will not be disappointed.

Nash offers an excellent analysis of how wildnerness became both a part of the American national fabric and came to represent the one thing that made America unique from other countries between the 18th and 20th centuries. While Nash offers excellent transitions and excellent insights into the ideas and legislation that led to the establishment of national parks, towards the end he gets slightly long winded, to the point of making his work less accessible to a more general audience. Perhaps the biggest downfall to this book is the final chapter where Nash engages into speculation about the future of humans relationship wth the wilderness, and while he does have some interesting ideas, I think he spends far too much time indulging in his own ideas instead of offering a proper summarization of his overall ideas. However, ignoring those parts, this is an excellent read for those looking to explore the social and political history of our national parks.

I had to read this book as required reading but I'm so glad I was exposed to it . This book has an end of history of Americans and our relationship with the environment. If anyone has a strong opinion or is just interested in learning about the environment and Americans choices towards it feelings towards it legal choices about it this is the book for you., so grateful I've been exposed to this book. Without reading books like this people should not be making strong arguments about what to do with the environment. This book is based on rational thought and not just pure emotion.

great product, will buy again

Wonderful book.Book arrived timely and in a condition better than described.

A great account of environmentalism and protectionism in the U.S., replete with analyses of historical documents, proceedings, and popular writings of the times. Nash's fifth edition includes replies and follow-ups to issues/critiques raised in previous editions. Would recommend to anyone interested in studies of environmental social movements and American culture.

I am still reading the book but I believe it has already given me insight for the reasons there is such resistance to the idea of wilderness. From our stories for children to the bible there is a very negtative view of Wilderness. So much negativity permeates the fundamentals that so many people rely on or have been exposed to. It will take a long time to overcome that negativity.

A detailed history of America's fascination with the outdoors and the idea of wilderness. An excellent read at a coffee shop set in the mountains or at home while longing to be in the many places discussed in the book.

I have two different hard cover editions of this book, one going back to 1974. I use this for research and presentations on 'Wilderness' - it is an invaluable reference for this. A well written, extensively researched, and inspirational book for those who value 'wilderness'...and those who should!

Definitely US centred but still a great insight into how wilderness is viewed