ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the concept of boundary as a socio-spatial phenomenon, the redefinition of which has an impact on collective territorial identities. It focuses primarily on protected area managers, individuals working within protected area administrations in various roles who are involved in 'drawing lines': people who define the boundaries of protected areas. The book explores both the return of the idea of 'natural' boundaries and the support for the idea of a societal definition of boundaries linked to human spatial practices. It considers maps produced by protected area administrations. The book also explores the myth of boundless nature as an example of a sedimented myth. It suggests that the assimilation of biophysical and societal boundaries has attained the status of a sacred myth in protected area planning, it is promoted as the main objective of successful design.
