The Role of Local Wisdom in Sustainable Tourism Development: A Cultural Studies Approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jmrr/V2E2/2026-04Keywords:
Local Wisdom, Sustainable Tourism, Cultural Studies, Community Empowerment, Cultural PreservationAbstract
Sustainable tourism is a crucial factor in addressing the economic, social, and environmental challenges of contemporary tourism practices. However, modernization and globalization pose significant threats to the preservation of local cultures, often leading to the homogenization and marginalization of local communities. Empirical literature specifically linking local wisdom to sustainable tourism practices is limited, with limited integration between cultural theory, local practices, and tourism development. This study critically reviews the literature to understand the contribution of local wisdom to sustainable tourism, focusing on the interaction between cultural values, community participation, and sustainability outcomes. Using a narrative review method with thematic synthesis of academic publications and international institutional reports (Scopus, Web of Science), the study found that local wisdom—encompassing customs, social norms, and culture-based economic practices—plays a significant role in shaping community behavior and sustainable tourism practices. The findings highlight the role of local wisdom in economic empowerment, cultural preservation, social participation, and environmental management. Key challenges include modernization, global market pressures, and the lack of documentation of local wisdom.
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