Freeman, Milton M. R. 1991. "Sustainable Whaling in Contemporary Perspective: Introductory Remarks." Presented at Second annual conference of the International Association for the Study of Common Property, Winnipeg, Manitoba, 26-30 September, 1991.

Abstract

"Whaling in current times remains a problematic common property management issue, both because of the difficulties inherent in managing fugitive commonpool resources for sustainable use and for another, and quite new, consideration, namely the high symbolic and emotional loading accorded, for whatever reason, to this particular class of natural resource.

"The papers in today and tomorrow's three whaling sessions will explore some of these issues and, hopefully, lead to constructive discussion of the problems. It is important to remind ourselves that the impact of these problems is more especially focused upon those whose dependence on the resource is greatest, namely individuals and communities having developed cultural, social, nutritional and economic dependencies on these particular fishery resources. It is for this reason that most of the presenters at these sessions are social scientists, for the biological aspects of management are addressed each year at the meetings of the Scientific Committee of the International Commission. Thus this present meeting is one of a series of meetings organized to provide opportunity to explore and present the human side of this management debate through discussions to be held here and through subsequent publication of the views expressed."