Will the Ark Sink? Captive Wildlife, Tourism and the Human Relationship to Nature: Demystifying Zoos

Abstract

Apart from displaying many facets of the ambiguous relationship of humans and animals, zoos and aquariums are also a significant part of the tourism industry. Their supposed goals are visitor education, visitor entertainment, species conservation and behavioural animal research. It seems therefore reasonable to describe those institutions as an ark for endangered species. However, the role of zoos in modern societies is more and more called into question. Their main purpose is described as visitor entertainment (to create economic benefits) covered up by conservation, education and research claims. Arguably, some would like to see their demise, while others propose changes that include an alternative, but more sustainable version of zoos and aquariums: wildlife parks and wildlife sanctuaries that focus on the well-being of the animals.