Natural resource policy in this country is analyzed, with special reference to national forest management. Past and present public forest management are tied to the individualistic tradition of liberal thought stemming from the Enlightenment. The individualism of the liberal tradition has generated difficulties in natural resource management that affect the major policy approaches of today. Particular attention is given to the individual and the role of the state in contradistinction to mediating communal institutions. The case history presented suggests the value of more holistic, communal policy alternatives.