Also key in influencing the ways in which we think about growth is our image of the underlying facts, regarding issues such as the vulnerability of the natural ecosystem, and the extent to which growth pays for itself. Not surprisingly, many policy disputes are ultimately attributable to factual disagreements about the nature of growth. This part of the questionnaire encourages you to first identify the key facts which underlie your opinions on growth. We start by asking you to indicate your support for a number of factual statements. We also provide an opportunity for you to identify additional issues that you see as playing an important role. These can include factual statements that you believe in, as well as those that you doubt.

The Environment is Invincible -- Nature is invincible and very strong; it will replenish itself, and there is no need to protect it.

Related to a person's view of nature is their orientation toward the uses of nature:

Unfettered Use of Nature -- Individuals have a right to use as much of nature as they want; no one can tell them how, where, or why they can or can't use nature.

Moderate Use of Nature -- The environment should be used on a limited basis, if it is needed as a resource for human well-being.

Low-Impact Use of Nature -- Individuals should not use nature. (This is a "leave it alone" attitude, or a "we need more information before we use it at all" attitude.)