A vital contribution to the debate about the conceptual foundations of environmentalism. Leading scholars and practitioners examine the classical conservation tradition and its value to contemporary environmentalism. Focusing not just on the tensions that have marked the deconstructivist debate over wilderness and environmentalism, the book represents a larger and ultimately more constructive and hopeful discussion over the proper course of future conservation scholarship and action. A wealth of diverse perspectives are represented, addressing such topics as wilderness and protected areas, cultural landscapes, rural/agrarian landscapes and urban/built environments.