The movement has no shortage of zealots, crusaders, and gurus. More than a few of these prophesy the apocalyptic destruction of life on earth, preach redemption through abstinence, honor wilderness as sacred ground, and scorn to submit their beliefs to empirical validation. Most Americans do not make a creed or cult of environmentalism, but millions do respond favorably to eco-evangelist preaching. But every creed offers an outlet for such devotional feelings.
Nature is also an object of beauty and wonder.
Nature has a dignity or worth apart from any economic purpose it may serve. This intuition is widely shared because it is well-nigh unavoidable. Anyone who has gazed at the stars on a clear night, stood in a redwood forest, or owned a dog has experienced nature as something majestic, venerable, or loveable. Since nature's intrinsic value eludes monetary calculation, eco-evangelists reason, we cannot look to market forces to protect nature. Humanity will profane nature, they contend, unless government massively restricts economic liberty.