"Not on Our Watch"

Abstract

For those people who work with endangered species, the current rate of extinctions is experienced as a chronic disaster However, many dedicated professionals continue to work with commitment, despite discouraging trends, to try to stem the tide. This article uses qualitative data gathered from interviews with an international group of biologists, zoologists, and wildlife managers associated with an effective global social change network, the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group. It explores their motivations and analyzes these in terms of Erikson's descriptions of classical responses to chronic disasters, particularly environmental disasters. It suggests that organizational form, network relationships, inspirational leadership, and the ability to cognitively frame or delimit scope and responsibility are all critical to responding positively to seemingly hopeless situations.