The Intelligence from The Economist The Intelligence: America’s culture wars brought to bears
Dec 8, 2023
Erin Braun, the West Coast correspondent for The Economist, discusses the surprising resurgence of grizzly bears in Montana and the political tensions surrounding their protection. She highlights the balancing act between conservation efforts and local residents. Meanwhile, Duncan Weldon, the Britain correspondent, delves into the booming vaping market, revealing the industry's unexpected call for more regulation to safeguard youth. Together, they navigate the intersection of wildlife management and public health in a rapidly changing landscape.
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Close Encounter
- Carly Johnson, a Montana resident, recounts a grizzly bear sighting in her yard.
- This encounter fuels the political debate about bear management.
States' Rights
- Republican states want control over grizzly bear management, currently under federal regulation.
- They argue that federal oversight hinders their response to bear-human conflicts.
Recovery vs. Risk
- Scientists agree that grizzly bears have recovered significantly, particularly in the Yellowstone ecosystem.
- However, state-level laws easing wolf and black bear hunting raise concerns about future grizzly management.