| The purpose of this research was to determine whether respondents support a focus on the needs of wildlife as a basis for biodiversity conservation in Nova Scotia, and if so, which species would most garner support for conservation efforts in the province. This research is part of a Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) project therefore the objectives and the methods reflect those of the larger project (Beazley 2000). Three-phase, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted with 35 people in two socio-economically varied areas in the province, Digby and Halifax, between the months of May and September 2002. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using QSR NUDIST text analysis software.; Findings suggest that respondents are familiar with biodiversity issues. However, many endangered species in the region were not widely recognized. Digby respondents more frequently expressed naturalistic, moralistic, utilitarian, dominionistic and supremacy values toward wildlife. In comparison, Halifax respondents more typically expressed aesthetic, ecological and the intrinsic values of wildlife. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
