[pct-l] Re:Anthro Thesis

[Brann Dustin Zafren <zafren@cats.UCSC.EDU>]

I will soon be writing a thesis paper for my anthropology degree  on 
American culture and 
retreat into the Sierra Nevada wilderness from urban areas.  The first half 
will 
be on ways the area has been perceived historically, while the second 
half will focus on the notes I took along my 2 month journey from Belden 
to Giant Forest (in Sequoia) this summer. I got some wonderful input from 
people on the trail concerning
aspects of our culture that may be responsible for propelling individuals 
into wilderness solitude, and how/why it can beneficial to their well-being. 
Near the end of my trip, a ranger told me that most people who venture 
into the sierras for short trips  cannot "internalize" the wilderness 
experience - that they lose it upon returning home.  I would be very 
curious to know how the summer of '99 thru or section hikers (or 
whoever) feel about this.  Has the experience stayed with you, or does 
it slowly fade as a response to urban pressures?  Also, any input on the 
subject of my thesis would be very helpful.
Thanks,
Zafro 
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