The question of sustainable use of whales becomes blurred against this backdrop, because sustainability in this context is no longer simply concerned with biology and population dynamics, but with differing cultural perceptions about the intrinsic value of whales. For Inuit, whaling is much more than a philosophy or political stance. It is a way of life. It is therefore quite incomprehensible to Inuit that people who do not understand the socio-cultural connotations of whaling, and the nutritional and spiritual aspects of whaling, have taken it upon themselves to argue for whaling to come to a halt. The book illustrates, through copious usage of quotes by Inuit, the range of ways that whaling is important to them.
Cultural imperialism is an important challenge to the Inuit way of life.
In this context the authors refer to the cultural and ideological domination by those who are against whaling. It becomes a cultural question when those who are against are also far removed from the reality of a hunting culture. Anti-whaling groups argue that whales should be saved because of their superior intelligence and because they are innocent animals. Ironically environmental protection includes protection of whales, and is often presented in the format of individual animals in need of protection. It is this continued sentiment that is a major threat to Inuit livelihood, and the essence of this book.