The Decibel The people pursuing impossible goals
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Jan 8, 2026 Mark Medley, Deputy Editor of The Globe and Mail's Opinion section and author of 'Live to See the Day', explores the intriguing world of impossible goals. He discusses the motivations behind pursuing pursuits that may never be achieved, like finding lost species and planetary defense initiatives. Medley emphasizes traits such as patience and resilience, and delves into fascinating profiles, including that of Les Knight and the Voluntary Human Extinction Movement. Ultimately, he reflects on how these ambitions can extend our concern for future generations.
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Lives Defined By Vanishing Targets
- Mark Medley profiles people chasing legendary or vanishing targets like lost fortunes, extinct ducks, and interstellar travel.
- These personal quests anchor entire lives despite lacking a clear finish line.
A Single Sighting Became A Lifelong Mission
- Jeremy Holden has spent ~40 years searching Sumatra for the bipedal Orin Pendek after one close sighting.
- He never photographed it and that single sighting became his life's mission.
Proof As A Conservation Tool
- Jeremy's hunt doubles as conservation work: proof would protect Sumatra's rainforest from development.
- The impossible goal ties evidence-seeking to a broader ecological mission.