Identifying social values in archival sources: change, continuity and invention in tourist experiences of the Great Barrier Reef

Identifying social values in archival sources: change, continuity and invention in tourist experiences of the Great Barrier Reef

The significance of heritage places is primarily assessed on the basis of physical characteristics that are understood through architectural or artistic aesthetics, and archaeological or historic interpretations. Social value is a criterion which allows consideration of heritage significance beyond these categories. In particular it is used as a means for marginalised groups to have their values considered and, importantly, it allows the consideration of cultural values in assessing the significance of natural regions. This paper proposes that, in addition to the current methods of direct enquiry, textual sources and observation may contribute to an understanding of social significance. The history of visitor experiences on the Great Barrier Reef is used as a case study to demonstrate how these methods can identify social significance for past communities and provide a mechanism by which to validate and interpret contemporary social value.