Thoreau’s Human Ecology

Abstract

Argues that the two competing views of Thoreau – one as a proponent of ecological solutions to community living, the other as the individualist often at odds with society – can be resolved by recognizing his interests in contemporary writings about civilization and ethnology. Claims Thoreau merged these ideas with his study of nature and his interests in ecology throughout his career. Suggests that when viewed in this light, works like Walden are not only about nature and individual moral and spiritual development, but also about human progress locally, nationally, and globally.