The Perception of Locals as Tourist Attractions

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As a tourist, people see you and your family as minor players in a drama. You just happen to live there. They appreciate your cute outfits and boots, treating you like characters in a museum diorama. However, there is a lack of respect. This reminds me of Adam Smith's idea that people want not only to be loved but also to be lovely.

James Rebanks's family has raised sheep in the same small English village for at least four centuries. There are records of people with his same last name going back a few hundred more. Even his sheep are rooted in place: their DNA is from Viking times. It's enough to make anyone feel insignificant--and according to Rebanks, that's a wonderful thing. Listen as the author of The Shepherd's Life speaks with EconTalk's Russ Roberts about the deep pleasures and humbling privilege of being a sheep farmer.