The Spread of Forest Protection Awareness: An Anthropological Study on the Influence of Writer Nguyen Ngoc on the Central Highlands Community, Vietnam

Abstract

Background and objective: The Central Highlands (Tay Nguyen) is a region endowed with a rich and diverse forest ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and preserving the cultural identity of ethnic minorities in Vietnam. However, this area is currently facing severe environmental degradation due to excessive deforestation, land-use conversion, and the impacts of climate change. In this context, literature is not only of artistic value but also serves as an effective means to raise awareness and promote environmental protection efforts. Among the writers who have significantly influenced forest conservation awareness, Nguyen Ngoc stands out with literary works that deeply reflect the human-nature relationship and serve as a declaration of forest and cultural protection in the Tay Nguyen. This study focuses on analyzing the role of Nguyen Ngoc’s literature in raising awareness and promoting actions to protect Tay Nguyen forests. It explores how literature can contribute to spreading environmental consciousness within communities and supporting sustainable nature conservation policies. Methods: This study employs qualitative methods, combining textual analysis and in-depth interviews. Representative works of Nguyen Ngoc such as Đất nước đứng lên (Nguyen, 1956), Rừng xà nu (Nguyen, 1965), Các bạn tôi ở trên ấy (Nguyen, 2021a), etc., are analyzed to clarify how the author uses natural imagery to convey environmental protection messages. In addition, interviews with literary scholars, environmental activists, and local residents were conducted to evaluate the impact of these works on forest conservation awareness and behavior. Based on the research findings, the study proposes a model for spreading forest conservation awareness through literature consisting of four stages: innovation, communication channels, time, and social systems. Results: The findings show that Nguyen Ngoc's works not only describe the majestic beauty of the Tay Nguyen mountains and forests but also deliver a powerful message of forest preservation. The image of the xa nu tree in Rừng xà nu (Nguyen, 1965) symbolizes both the indomitable spirit of the Tay Nguyen people and the resilient strength of the forest against human destruction. His literature has contributed to changing public perception of the forest's importance, evoking a love for nature and a sense of environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of literature as an effective tool for environmental education. Nguyen Ngoc's works not only reinforce public awareness of the forest's value but also inspire environmental protection movements. Through diverse communication channels—from books and newspapers to conferences and social media—the forest conservation messages in his works have been widely disseminated, influencing various social groups. Conclusion: Based on the research findings, several recommendations are proposed to leverage literature in environmental education and forest protection policies. First, Nguyen Ngoc's works should be integrated into educational curricula to help students gain deeper insight into the importance of forests in human life. Second, communication about forest conservation through literature should be enhanced, emphasizing the long-term impact of literature on social awareness. Finally, forest protection policies should incorporate cultural elements, recognizing forests not only as natural resources but also as an inseparable part of the spiritual life and cultural identity of local communities.