* Preservation of Wilderness: Muir was a strong advocate for the preservation of wild places, arguing for their intrinsic value and the importance of protecting them from human exploitation. He saw wilderness as a source of inspiration, beauty, and spiritual renewal.
* Appreciation of Nature: Muir encouraged people to develop a deep appreciation and understanding of the natural world. He believed that experiencing nature firsthand could foster a sense of wonder, respect, and responsibility towards it.
* Connection Between Humans and Nature: Muir emphasized the interconnectedness of humans and nature, arguing that human well-being is dependent on the health of the environment. He believed that harming nature ultimately harms ourselves.
* Ethical Responsibility towards Nature: Muir advocated for a moral obligation to protect nature, not just for its utilitarian value but for its inherent right to exist. He believed that humans had a responsibility to act as stewards of the environment.
* Conservation through Education: Muir saw education as a vital tool for promoting conservation. He wrote extensively about nature, hoping to inspire people to care for the environment and advocate for its protection.
* Government Action for Conservation: Muir believed that government action was necessary to protect wilderness areas from development and exploitation. He lobbied for the establishment of national parks and other protected areas.
Through his writing, John Muir sought to inspire a deeper connection with nature, foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment, and advocate for its preservation for future generations.