Amidst mass tourism : Tri Hita Karana and conflict of valuation languages

This study looks at an environmental conflict over a tourism development project in Benoa Bay, which has emerged as one of the most contentious issues in Bali, Indonesia. The central question lies in exploring the mobilisation of the tri hita karana (hereafter THK) philosophy by different actors who all seek to advance their political goals in the conflict. Using a case study methodology with an ethnographic orientation, the paper finds that a seemingly similar language of valuation – here the language of THK – can lead to very different consequences and visions of development. Accordingly, the study suggests that what could be referred to as post-growth thinking is not automatically reflected in a specific language of valuation. Ideas beyond growth potentially emanate and flourish only when actors use languages expressing incommensurability of values in their substantive use. These actors band together in environmental justice movement.