Publication
Title
Back to the future : retrospectivity, recovery, and nostalgia in rewilding
Author
Abstract
In this article, rewilding’s orientation towards the past is discussed. A response is given to the criticisms that condemn rewilding for its retrospectivity, either as nostalgically clinging to the past or escaping history. Instead, it is shown how rewilding can embrace nostalgia as part of a critical, (counter-)cultural vision aimed at the transformation of modern culture. Its main goal can be seen as threefold: first, it is aimed at providing a more nuanced assessment of rewilding’s contested stance towards the past (and thereby, the future) through the lens of nostalgia. Second, it is demonstrated how, seen through this lens, cultural and ecological aspects of rewilding appear inextricably intertwined. Third, the concepts of ‘cultural rewilding’ and ‘recovery’ are introduced as valuable notions within rewilding. In sum, an appeal is provided for rewilders to embrace the past by dedicating attention towards cultural heritage, history, memory, and tradition.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Environmental ethics. - Athens, Ga
Environmental ethics. - Charlottesville, VA
Publication
Athens, Ga : 2023
ISSN
0163-4275
DOI
10.5840/ENVIROETHICS202383167
Volume/pages
45 :4 (2023) , p. 359-380
ISI
001074432600004
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 03.10.2023
Last edited 07.12.2023
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