The Wild with Chris Morgan 50 years of Jaws: shark myths and misunderstandings
Dec 9, 2025
In this fascinating conversation, shark scientist Amani Weber-Schultz shares her insights as she reacts to iconic clips from Jaws on its 50th anniversary. Amani, a PhD candidate and co-founder of Minorities in Shark Sciences, debunks common shark myths, explaining their behavior and the reality of shark attacks. She emphasizes the importance of moving from fear to respect and recounts her own thrilling in-water encounter with a shark. The discussion highlights the media's role in shaping perceptions and Amani's outreach efforts to diversify shark science.
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Sharks Are Evolutionary Survivors
- Sharks have been evolutionarily optimized for hundreds of millions of years and retain an efficient body plan for swimming, eating, and reproduction.
- Amani notes sharks' longevity (≈450 million years) explains why their design looks “perfect” and unchanged.
Don't Blame Attacks On 'Rogue' Sharks
- Avoid assuming sharks are territorial or part of rogue packs; evidence for such behavior is weak or absent.
- Treat shark behavior as largely solitary or species-specific, not human-like territorial aggression.
Stay Calm If A Shark Approaches
- If a shark approaches, keep your eyes on it and avoid panicked splashing or flailing.
- Maintain composure, minimize movement, and try to retreat calmly rather than provoke the animal.
