Introduction

Wolves and Wisconsin Wilderness: Introduction

The balance between society, the wild, and Wisconsin wolves is an emotionally charged, strongly divided topic.  The divided beliefs stem from what the wolf symbolizes socially as well as the biological aspects of the wolf presence.  The main question we seek to address is: Can modern society achieve a balance with the wild wolf?  We will address this question by looking at the history of wolves in Wisconsin, the symbolism of the wolf with regards to the Native American and European perspectives, Aldo Leopold’s contributions on the issue of wolves, the current status of the wolf, and activism groups for wolves.  These areas of research will create a picture of the balance that is needed.   This balance is still contingent on whether the residents of Wisconsin will allow wolves to live near their society.