The Bear Hunting Debate

A referendum to repeal the use of baiting, hounds and trapping for bear hunting in Maine will appear for the second time in 10 years on the ballot this November. The campaign is being financed primarily by the Humane Society of the United States, but with logistical support from people in Maine. This article looks at what I think the real questions are in this debate.

The referendum reflects two main trends occurring simultaneously in American society. One is the impact of big money in American politics. The other is urbanization. The Humane Society of the United States represents both sources of change grinding away at our institutions and what is left of Maine’s rural way of life.<<<Read More>>>(Pay Wall)