Stoll-Kleefmann, S., 2001, Barriers to nature conservation in Germany: a model explaining opposition to protected areas, in: Journal of Environmental Psychology, 21,
- Author : Stoll-Kleefmann, S.
- Year : 2001
- Journal/Series : Journal of Environmental Psychology
- Volume Number (CONSECUTIVE: Counting all Volumes of this Journal ever published) : 21
- Pages : 369-385
- Contents in English : In Germany, the drive to protect potentially threatened areas is so strong that inadequate attention is paid to the sensitivities and traditions of local landusers and residents. This lack of empathy on the part of the German nature conservations authorities has led to widespread resistance to protected areas management and a strong sense of solidarity in opposition. This paper examines the social-psychological processes at work, and indicates possible ways forward possible reconciliation. Opposition to nature conservation in Germany is rooted neither in economic conflict nor priorities over land use. It is very much a function of social identity, stereotyped images, and how particular social groups are regarded and approached. A lack of knowledge on the part of the conservationists concerning the importance of these social-psychological processes has led to an escalation of opposition. Constructive ways are proposed to reconcile these differing perceptions.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: nature conservation, social resistance, social psychology, Germany, communication.