Final answer:
Should large scale cruise ships tour the North West Passage, a balance of social enjoyment, economic benefit, political safety concerns, and environmental protection must be found. Regulation and oversight could potentially allow for sustainable tourism.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering whether large scale cruise ships should be allowed to tour the North West Passage and the high arctic, a geographic perspective involves multiple viewpoints including social, political, economic, and environmental considerations.
- Social View - A passenger on the cruise might experience immense beauty and unique culture, contributing to personal growth and global understanding.
- Political View - Canada's Coast Guard expresses concerns about safety and the difficulty of rescue operations, highlighting the need for strong regulations and preparedness.
- Economic View - Community members of small towns may see economic benefits from tourism, but are also aware of the potential for disruption to their way of life.
- Environmental View - Environmentalists are concerned about the fragile arctic ecosystem and the potential for damage from increased human activity.
Each of these viewpoints offers insights into the complexities of arctic tourism. After consideration of these perspectives, my opinion is that if large scale cruise ship tours are allowed, they should be subject to strict regulations to ensure the protection of local communities and the environment, while also providing safety for the passengers.