Among those who have an explicit interest in wilderness, there are often strong disagreements about its future. To some it provides society with important and valuable opportunities in recreation, science, education, spiritual growth, conservation, preservation of biodiversity, and rural economic stimulation. To others it is seen as a playground reserved for a small and relatively affluent segment of society, a source of lost jobs in the extractive industries, an impediment to economic development, and a violation of the private land ethic fundamental to American life.

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