Benjamin White Analysis

The second mindset, which is equally as flawed as the first according to White, is that our work connects us to nature more so then our recreation does, but most environmentalists that believe that still believe that modern technology and modern working of nature cuts off an establishment between us and nature. They believe that archaic, backbreaking forms of labor are the only way to establish the true, working connection with nature. White argues that although this form of labor does indeed establish a deep connection with nature, it is in ways misguided. With regards to preservation, White says that these archaic forms of labor often do not protect the environment but rather harm it. Furthermore, this kind of “romanticism” creates a political problem for the environmentalists of this persuasion or viewpoint. It does little for them politically because we as individuals and collectively as a society MUST work in nature in order to survive. In terms of politics we will always vote our own self preservation before
natures preservation. As an environmentalist, White clearly desires the preservation of nature. He recognizes that the deepest connection between man and nature exists when we work in nature. However, White rejects the notion that our work in nature must be archaic, grueling, and backbreaking labor. The solution he proposes is that we must recognize no matter how alienated we seem from nature, that our work is in fact in nature. This mindset White hopes will give us a deep connection to nature, and he believes this connection will result in the preservation of nature as well.
Both White and Cronon seem to have similar ideas when it comes to wilderness.
They both believe that there is no simple solution to the problems that are so prevalent with it today. They both see nature as a vital piece of our future, and something that we need to respect it. The belief that nature must be a prevalent part of your life in order for you to truly care about it, is the main argument for both of these men. White believes that the more you work in nature, the more deeply rooted and connected you are with it, while Cronon believes that we need to see nature as a second home to us, as nature is everywhere, including in cities, and urband areas. Cronon believes that this deep love for nature as a second home will in turn cause people to care more for it, and learn more about it. Basically, both men had similar ideas, and both saw nature as something that needed to be in peoples lives in order for them to understand the complexities of it
better.