Elephants & Whales: Resources For Whom?

This text examines issues surrounding the management and conservation of a particular category of animal, namely the mediagenic megafauna, or the largest of the land and sea mammals. The value accorded to different biotic resources varies significantly depending upon the interests and goals of the parties undertaking the valuation, and these different perceptions often come to influence management of these species. Discussion and programmes directed toward saving elephants and whales are particularly instructive in this regard, as these species appeal to diverse groups for markedly different reasons.