The changing discourses of Northern wilderness areas: traditional use, modern conservation and touristic future

Abstract

Wilderness as a concept is a contested idea which is constantly transforming. On the analytical level, we can understand the conceptual transformation and the changing meanings of wilderness as discourses, which are constructed in a certain socio-cultural context and historical power relations. In the Finnish and Nordic context, three different discourses concerning the concept of wilderness can be elaborated: (1) the traditional wilderness, (2) the conserved wilderness, and (3) the touristic wilderness. This paper discusses the nature and the context of these wilderness discourses and their relationship to the use and values of wilderness areas in Northern Finland. In conclusion, the development of tourism is emphasised to play an important role in the future use and management practices of wilderness areas in Northern Finland.