Confessions of an Eco-Warrior

February 4, 1991
In light of environmentalist Foreman's arrest in 1989 in Tucson, Ariz., on sabotage-conspiracy charges and impending trial, the title seems enticing. But these 19 urgent essays aren't exactly ``confessions.'' Foreman, co-founder of the militant Earth First! movement, discusses his legal problems only to the extent of claiming he was framed. His aim here is, instead, to lecture on the importance of preserving and rehabilitating a disappearing wilderness. Earth is in crisis, stresses Foreman, and human hands must be restrained from mistreating the wilderness. Grizzlies and redwoods, in Foreman's realm, deserve at least as much status as humans. The author, who long ago lost faith in government protection of wilderness, seeks to restore passion to environmental groups and spur individuals to acts of civil disobedience when needed. Much of the book is familiar material but, with expected trial publicity, Foreman's important message should reach new ears.