Managing the Return of the Wild: Human Encounters with Wolves in Europe

This book explores attitudes and strategies towards the return of the wild in times of ecological crisis, focusing on wolves in Europe. It examines human encounters with wolves, engaging with traditional narratives and contemporary conflicts, and demonstrates the tremendous impact of the return of the wolf on European societies. It considers the return of the wild as a catalyst for fundamental socio-biological changes and the various responses of humans to wolves, highlighting our potential and limitations in multispecies communities and negotiating societal change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate dynamics surrounding the return of the wild in times of ecological crisis, with a specific focus on wolves in Europe. Through a diverse range of contributions from various disciplines, the book explores the complex human encounters with wolves, challenging traditional narratives and addressing contemporary conflicts. Spanning across diverse geographical areas, the case studies presented showcase the profound impact of the wolf's return on European societies. Wolves, as iconic keystone species, symbolize the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world, igniting intense debates about the definition of "nature" and the appropriate level of its preservation or conservation. The book examines the return of the wild as a catalyst for fundamental socio-biological changes on a global scale, highlighting the diverse responses of humans to wolves. These responses reveal both our potential for harmonious coexistence with multispecies communities and the limitations we face in navigating societal transformations.

Managing the Return of the Wild appeals to a wide audience, including scholars from multispecies studies and diverse fields such as biology, forestry management, and folklore studies. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between social and ecological dynamics, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities arising from the re-establishment of wild populations. By examining the case of wolves in Europe, the book provides a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives, contributing to our understanding of the intricate web of relationships between humans and the natural world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367498733