Czego pomnikiem jest drzewo "pomnik przyrody"?
What Is the Meaning of the Tree as a "Monument of Nature"?

Summary/Abstract: In this article, I consider the meaning of trees as “monuments of nature” – a subject that has been absent from sociological literature. As may be supposed, because of the complexity of meanings that can be attributed to trees as “monuments,” tree monuments should inspire not only the interest of naturalists but also the interest of social scientists. I outline the history of “monuments of nature” in Poland. I analyse press reports from the last decade to show that tree monuments arouse interest only in connection with special events (e.g., anniversaries of the tree’s being given monument status) or when there is a shocking report of their destruction. I claim that tree monuments exist in social oblivion, even when they are presented as local tourist attractions. I inquire into the causes for such a state of affairs and reflect on the lack of everyday social interest in tree monuments.

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