Opposition to the Designation of Protected Areas in Germany

Abstract

Opposition to the establishment of nature protection areas in Germany is widespread and growing to the point where any designation is becoming increasingly difficult to implement. This paper seeks to make explicit how and why that opposition has arisen. It draws on two socio-psychological theories, namely the social identity theory and the theory of psychological reactance, to provide an explanation. The analysis shows that many motivations are involved, even for the same individuals. Popular resistance does appear to create group solidarities and to reinforce insular attitudes. These outcomes in socio-psychological behaviour in turn create serious misunderstandings between protagonists and antagonists. The paper concludes by discussing possible ways for reconciling different outlooks, and for reinterpreting prejudices, by introducing more reliable forms of effective partnerships between proponents and possible opponents.