Responsible tourism

Responsible behavior derives from moral philosophy. One’s responsibility is considered in relation to a common understanding of it within a society. Therefore, what is considered responsible to a culture or society dictates how one should behave. In tourism, responsibility has the most significant application, since it involves the mixing of cultures and values and various understandings of being good. Quintessentially, responsibility requires a concern for humanity.

Concept and its use

The Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism is the most comprehensive and oft-cited definition. The principal interest is to improve the communities in which hosts live, and in turn enhance the experiences for visitors. Therefore, it should “minimize negative impacts, generate wider benefits for the local people…, improve the working conditions…, involve local people…, make positive contributions…, provide more enjoyable experiences…, provide access for physically challenged people,” and operate in...