Jane Goodall, ethologist & conservationist, shares details from over 60 years of studying chimpanzees and explains why she isn't slowing down at 89 years old. She discusses her early influences, observing chimpanzees, her groundbreaking discoveries, and the creation of the Jane Goodall Institute.
Jane Goodall emphasizes the importance of media focusing on positive projects to inspire action and protect the climate and environment.
Dr. Jane Goodall's journey to study chimpanzees in Africa started with a childhood dream and overcame skepticism from the scientific community through her pioneering research and determination.
Deep dives
Dr. Jane Goodall's Dedication to Protecting the Climate and Environment
Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned for her groundbreaking study on chimpanzees in Africa, is now devoted to inspiring young people worldwide to protect the climate and the environment. Her passion stems from her research findings that changed our understanding of non-human capabilities. Goodall emphasizes the need for media to focus on positive projects that inspire people to take action. She shares her journey from humble beginnings and the support from her mother, which fueled her determination to study animals in Africa. Goodall's work led to groundbreaking discoveries in chimpanzee behavior, including their use of tools. Despite criticism and challenges, National Geographic recognized her achievements, leading to greater recognition and respect within the scientific community. Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute to study and conserve chimpanzees, as well as promote education. She realized that addressing poverty and helping local communities was crucial to effective conservation efforts. Today, Goodall's focus is on climate change, the loss of biodiversity, and the need for healthy ecosystems to sustain human life.
The Challenging Journey of Studying Chimpanzees in Africa
Dr. Jane Goodall's journey to study chimpanzees in Africa started with a childhood dream of living in Africa and writing books about wild animals. Despite financial constraints, she saved up money and received an opportunity to study chimpanzees from paleontologist Louis Leakey. Goodall's initial attempts to engage with chimpanzees proved challenging, with months of them running away. However, she gradually won their trust by observing their behavior and earning their acceptance. Goodall recounts the primitive living conditions she endured, including a basic tent, encounters with dangerous animals, and loneliness. While her groundbreaking research on chimpanzee tool use and learning captivated the world, she faced skepticism from the scientific community due to her unconventional approach and lack of formal training.
Dr. Jane Goodall's Journey Beyond Scientific Research
After achieving great success in chimpanzee research, Dr. Jane Goodall continued her journey beyond scientific research. She obtained a Ph.D. to gain recognition from the scientific community and taught at Cambridge University. Goodall's dedication to conservation led to the formation of the Jane Goodall Institute, which aimed to study, conserve, and educate about chimpanzees and other animals. Recognizing the challenges faced by African communities living in chimpanzee habitats, Goodall expanded the institute's focus to include poverty alleviation and sustainable livelihoods. Her work highlights the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, emphasizing the importance of healthy ecosystems for our survival. Despite being 89 years old, Goodall remains committed to her mission, spreading hope and inspiring action to create positive change.
Jane Goodall, ethologist & conservationist, shares details from over 60 years of studying chimpanzees and explains why she isn't slowing down at 89 years old. She speaks on "The David Rubenstein Show: Peer-to-Peer Conversations". This interview was recorded October 1 in New York.
