THE SEEMINGLY APOLITICAL REALM of nature was in fact an active stage for many social and political debates of the early twentieth century. Because nature is seen as a separate realm, uncorrupted by civilization, the principles of nature provided an appealing model for political institutions and social movements to strive for, as well as the means for achieving this goal. In modeling their ideals and structures on nature, these institutions and movements legitimized themselves as promoting superior standards of living.

Nature was at the heart of the life reform (Lebensreform) movement which emerged in the late nineteenth century, drawing on the Enlightenment tradition of critiquing civilization as well as advancements and discoveries in the natural sciences. This resulted not only in a new understanding of and appreciation for nature but also in the formation of the concept of what is natural. Nature as the realm uncorrupted by humans was considered inherently good. Consequently, that which was considered natural was also idealized. As such, nature provided a model for the perfect life. The phrase “return to nature” (“Zurück zur Natur”), inspired by Rousseau's attitude toward nature, was often cited as embodying the spirit of this movement. The motto was, however, often misunderstood as many proponents of a more natural lifestyle were actually forward thinking with a vision for the future rather than looking back to a lost past.

In addition to taking part in the life reform movement, the bourgeoisie also embraced open-air free-time activities, mainly hiking and mountain climbing, beginning in the mid-nineteenth century. The German and Austrian Alpine Club (Deutscher und Oesterreichischer Alpenverein), created in the 1860s and 1870s, promoted a respect and appreciation for nature as well as helped to lead the way in conservation efforts. The organization generally attracted members who came from the bourgeois class and took pride in their country and national traditions, which cultivated a certain amount of nationalism and anti-Semitism among many of its members. There was nevertheless a strong tradition of Jewish mountaineers within and outside of the club in Vienna and throughout Europe.