Wildlife in American Culture

       The general argument made by Aldo Leopold in his work "Wildlife in American Culture" is that nature is important to the formation and make up of culture. More specifically, Leopold argues that wildlife has a large affect on America's culture in various areas. He writes, "Suffice it to say that by common consent of thinking people, there are cultural value in the sports, customs, and experiences, which renew contacts with wild things." (pg. 372) In this passage, Leopold is suggesting that wildlife is important to American culture and is the very thing holding it together. In conclusion, it is Leopold's belief that the preservation of wildlife and nature is very important.

            In my view, Leopold is right because nature has always shaped how people eat, live, and look. For example, it is only recently that people have used other materials besides animals to clothe themselves. Before recently when hunting was necessary all of the animal was used for all materials even clothing. Although, Leopold might object that there is still wildlife present in out culture I maintain that its importance is quickly fading from American life. Therefore I conclude that the importance of wildlife in American culture is fading in America's eyes but is still equally important and it must be preserved.