Carol Estes

Carol Estes is a freelance writer who frequently covers ecological issues. In the following viewpoint, she describes attending a conference sponsored by the Political Economy Research Center in which free-market approaches to conservation and environmental protection were discussed. Estes expresses doubts on whether the free market can be trusted to preserve America’s environment and natural resources, arguing that too often in the past property owners have degraded the environment in the pursuit of short-term gains. Those who advocate market reforms also overlook how important government regulations have been in reducing pollution and protecting national parks, she asserts.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What value does Estes attach to property rights"
2. How might privatizing natural resources such as parks worsen the divide between the nation’s rich...