Wednesday, December 5, 2006 Today, during first period Honors English10, our classed discussed how influential people of the past and present have followed in the footsteps of other prominent individuals in order to become the “great” character that they are remembered as. (For example, the infamous John Locke shadowed and studied the Earl of Shaftesbury in his early years before emerging as the grand, enlightened philosopher that we recognize him as today.) I was very curious to discover who helped Jane Goodall become such a motivated and accomplished primatologist, anthropologist, and conversationalist. It turns out, before she reached the age of twenty, Goodall had the life-changing opportunity to meet with the major wildlife authority Sir David Attenborough in Bournemouth, England. Attenborough was the man who instilled in Goodall the hope and encouragement to pursue her dreams of studying, protecting and living among the wild chimpanzees of Africa. He also taught Goodall the importance of protecting the ever-so delicate biosphere. Not only was she mentored by Sir David Attenborough, Jane Goodall was also taken under the wing of the famous anthropologist Louis Leakey! Louis Leakey chose Goodall to accompany him to Kenya in 1957 and 1958 where Goodall conducted her very fist study of wild chimpanzees. Without the guidance of these two well-known individuals in the field of primatology/ecology, Jane Goodall may not have attained the “greatness” that she has achieved today.

Saturday, January 6, 2007 I absolutely agree with Thomas Carlyle’s proposal that “it is the few, the powerful and the famous who shape our collective destiny as a species”. Environmentalists and scientists such as Jane Goodall have had an enormous effect on the future of the human species (increasingly so in recent years). After collecting data and working out in the field, the threats of global warming, deforestation and habitat destruction due to human activity have been communicated to the world by these very powerful and educated individuals. People all over the world are making efforts to reduce their harmful impact on the planet by recycling, buying products that were not tested on animals, and purchasing more fuel efficient appliances as well as investing in more eco-friendly methods of transportation. This sudden spike in interest for a healthier, more earth-nurturing lifestyle has become a popular trend- serving as a glimpse into the future of the human species that will hopefully no longer rely on such precious and limited resources as oil, lumber and animal products. Jane Goodall is one of the most prominent environmentalists who are fueling this trend. With the establishment of habitat-preserving programs such as the Jane Goodall Institute and “Roots and Shoots”, Goodall has successfully conveyed to people from all over the world that it is everyone’s responsibly to take care of our mother earth. In addition to the previously mentioned organizations, Jane Goodall also travels world-wide (from the busy cities of England to the minute villages of Tanzania)giving lectures to convey her message to the inhabitants (young and old alike)-focusing on their effect on the planet and methods for improving their relationship with the environment in which they live.

Friday, February 9, 2007 Today I began my quest to contact Dr. Jane Goodall, and the results thus far are very promising! First, I logged on to www.janegoodallinstitute.org and successfully located the email address for requesting interviews. The following letter is the letter that I sent the aforementioned address:

In addition to sending this letter requesting an interview with the great Dr. Jane Goodall herself, I also submitted the following question at the FAQ section of the Jane Goodall Institute website:

Hopefully I will recieve a response in the near future! If not, I will remain persistent and look for alternative methods for contacting Dr. Goodall and/or the Jane Goodall Institute. Until then, it's back to the notecards and sourcecards!

Saturday, February 10, 2007

Dr. Valerie Jane Goodall is an unbelievably accomplished individual who has achieved the impossible and so much more. Her phenomenal success as not only a seasoned primatologist, but also a prominent conservationist, environmentalist, ethologist, anthropologist, naturalist and foreign ambassador, leads us to the question: “Was Goodall just at the right place at the right time?” Place and time can have a tremendous effect on the success of one’s career and attaining one’s goals in life. Having the right connections, knowing the right people and living in the right place and time period have all proven to benefit and even accelerate people in their quest for “greatness”.

Surely time and place were on Goodall’s side as she pursued her dreams to study primates in Africa- just look how her career has flourished! In Goodall’s situation, this was definitely not the case. Jane Goodall grew up in war-torn England during the end of World War II in a dreadfully poor household. Burdensome issues ed over young Jane during her early years. Her father was away in France fighting in the War for the British military and their family was so poor they could not afford a bicycle, let alone an automobile or a college education. These depressing realities, however, never stopped Goodall from dreaming. Goodall’s pure curiosity and determination is what has carried her from the very beginning. With only the support of her mother, Jane faced harsh criticism and censorious scoffs when she first expressed her plans for Africa. Not only were women not treated as equals in the professional field during this time (and primatology was a field ted by men during this time period as well), but Africa was also condemned as the “Dark Continent” clouded with rumors of cannibals and poisoned arrows during the early to mid 1900s. At this point in her career, place and time were working against Goodall, but these obstacles never delayed or discouraged this amazing woman. Goodall’s persistence never failed and her willpower was unwavering- her two iconic qualities that have truly made her the incredible person she is today.

Optimum time and place have supplemented Goodall’s success in the later years of her career. Jane Goodall’s meeting with the famed anthropologist Louis Leakey at age twenty-six, for example, may be considered a fortunate coincidence of place and time. After her acquaintance with Leakey, Goodall’s career was moving full-force and her quickly developing and widespread “greatness” was inevitable. With today’s technology, Goodall can efficiently communicate her message of environment awareness, conservation and peace-making all over the globe (for example: the Internet, email, cellular phones, digital cameras, air travel, etc.). Time and place have aided Jane Goodall only after she initiated her greatness as an “underdog” with her sheer passion for animals and the environment as well as her determination to better mankind around the world. Therefore, it is evident Dr. Valerie Jane Goodall would have reached the same level of “greatness” (that she continues to build upon today) no matter when or where she has lived.

Tuesday, February 20, 2007 The essence of Dr. Jane Goodall’s greatness lies in her altruism, sanguinity and compassion for life. Even during her early childhood years,Jane exhibited these rare, admirable and distinguishing qualities. While most children her age dreamed of making millions as a movie star or ballerina, Goodall wanted more than anything to live among and nurture the wildlife of Africa. The fame, fortune and the many other superficial attractions that her contemporaries pursued never crossed Goodall’s mind. Jane Goodall has always felt a deeply ingrained passion and moral commitment to care for our earth and all of its creatures. Goodall’s selflessness and abiding enthusiasm for animals are the attributes that have allowed her to overcome countless obstacles in order to pursue her dream. During her lectures around the world, Dr. Goodall is frequently asked, “How can you be so hopeful with the daunting amount of pessimism, conflict and pollution that is occupying the world?” Goodall continually replies with a smile, “I have but four unwavering reasons for hope: the human brain, the determination of young people, the indomitable human spirit and the resilience of nature.” With this frame of mind, Jane Goodall has achieved prominence as a global figure for peace, conservation and primatology. Yet, Goodall has never sought “greatness”- the honorable term has come to Goodall naturally, magnetized by her extraordinary character. Considering the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall, it is evident that “greatness” holds the most meaning when the beholder did not pursue the title in a selfish endeavor for glory or wealth.

[A young Jane Goodall and her childhood companion, Rusty, are pictured at left. Jane Goodall claims that Rusty taught her to appreciate and nurture animals. Rusty also revealed to Goodall that animals are intelligent and complex beings that experience "human" emotions such as happiness, excitement, fear, and depression.]

Sunday, February 25, 2007 At this point in the research process, I believe that I can confidently and sufficiently answer my previously established research question- “How have Dame Valerie Jane Goodall’s philosophies, ideas and accomplishments influenced global economics, governments, cultures and technologies?” I currently have seventy-six note cards pertaining to my research subject and I have organized into five distinct categories, which include: Biography, Influence on Economy, Influence of Government, Influence on Culture and Influence on Technology. Finding ways in which Jane Goodall has affected the four major elements of the Power of One project has been surprisingly simple and unproblematic thanks to Goodall’s enormous impact on the world in such a broad spectrum of interests (that are continually growing). I am always discovering new ways in which Goodall continues to influence the world, reading the latest articles in which she is referenced and/or quoted, and adding to my ever-growing list of source cards (presently a total of twenty-one). I now have an abundance of knowledge concerning Goodall’s life, time period, philosophies, ideas and accomplishments as well as their affect on the world (especially in the areas of government, economics, culture and technology).As I had predicted before beginning the research process, finding ways in which Goodall has influenced culture, economy and government have been the least troublesome considering Goodall’s prominent position as a naturalist, ecologist, anthropologist, author, director and involvement in the United Nations as a “Messenger of Peace”. On the other hand, I have found the least examples of Goodall’s influence in the area of technology. Although I have found a relatively equal number of notable influences in all four subject areas, the examples that I have found regarding technology are less direct. Of all the professions, majors and studies that Jane Goodall has aspired toward within the last seventy-five years, becoming an inventor was not one of them. Yet, Jane and her colleagues at the Jane Goodall Institute (and sister organizations such as Roots and Shoots) are continually making use of the latest technologies to further communicate and aid their endeavors. GPS mapping and other satellite technologies are an essential component of Jane Goodall’s work. The internet has also propelled her cause on a global scale with the development of support groups, online chimpanzee “adoption” programs, as well as audio/video lectures- allowing Goodall to reach out to millions and raise awareness for preserving our Earth and its creatures. Even though this link to technology is less direct, it is definitely a critical connection all the same for the reason that it involves Goodall and her “global influence” (see research question). Since my research subject is still living, I would like to take advantage of this great opportunity to contact Jane Goodall and conduct an interview. An interview with Goodall will allow me to investigate more personal and unrecognized approaches to answering my research question. I have already made one attempt to contact JGI to request an interview without success. However, I will remain persistent and continue to make an effort to contact Dr. Goodall- an interview with this extraordinary woman will undoubtedly serve as an invaluable tool in the research process.

Thursday, March 1, 2007 At the age of ten, Jane Goodall was determined to live her dream of working with animals and living among the wildlife of Africa. At that point in time, Jane's dreams were encouraged by the characters of Dr. Dolittle . The passion and enthusiasm for animals that Dr. Dolittle comically exhibited was something that the young Jane Goodall shared and wished to incorporate into professional life ahead. The story of Tarzan was another fictional tale that sparked the interests that lead Goodall to pursue the field of primatology and become who she is today. Jane Goodall remembers wanting desperately to be the "Jane" in Tarzan living adventurously among the majestical great apes of Africa. While her elders shrugged and laughed in response to Goodall's seemingly radical plans to visit Africa to study primates, Goodall's mother whole-heartedly supported her endeavors (she even accompanied her on her first journey to Gombe where she slept in tents and camped-out in tree huts just to catch a glimpse of the wild chimpanzees). Goodall's mother was a female pioneer in an otherwise male ted field herself as novelist in England- she believed in defying the impossible and rising above the expectations of others. If it wasn't for the approval and support of her mother, Goodall may have relinquished her dream to visit Africa long ago. Goodall's first trip to Africa was a monumental journey that allowed her to find her calling in life, consequently propelling her career into high-gear and permitting her goals to evolve into a global campaign dedicated to protecting the world,its precious resources and invaluable creatures. Without the early childhood stories that she grew up with and her mother's unconditional loyalty and encouragement, Goodall probably wouldn't have grown to achieve what she has to become the incredible woman that the world recognizes her as today.

Sunday, March 11, 2007 If I could ask Dr. Jane Goodall just one question, what would it be? With so many burning questions only she could answer, it is exceptionally difficult to select a single question. Nonetheless, I have finally come to a decision on what I believe to be the most critical question for Goodall: "Are you confident that, when you die, the Jane Goodall Institute will continue to communicate your message concerning how humans impact the Earth with equal effectiveness and success?" This is a very poignant inquiry because at the age of seventy-five, Jane Goodall must certainly be contemplating what will become of her global organizations, programs, sanctuaries, efforts and endeavors when she has passed. I wonder if her efforts will receive the same amount of support and responsiveness without the great Jane Goodall in charge. People like Jane Goodall are truly one in a million (one in a billion is more probable). It will be difficult to find an individual with such a determined and unbreakable spirit that harbors as much enthusiasm and desire to help the Earth as Jane Goodall’s when she is gone. Many people (although very supportive of Goodall’s efforts) continue to doubt if she will ever be able to change the mindset/attitudes of the many cultures that continue to war, pollute and abuse our environment and its wildlife without remorse or willingness to change their ways. Yet, Jane Goodall has always responded that she remains persistent and optimistic because she has four unyielding reasons for hope: “the human brain, the determination of young people, the indomitable human spirit and the resilience of nature”. With her optimistic views and philosophies, I believe that Jane Goodall’s response to my one question would be, “absolutely”.

Friday, March 16, 2007

PART II: Stella Street's research subject, Ingrid Newkirk, shares many of the same values and goals as Dr. Jane Goodall. In fact, Jane Goodall has worked with PETA and Ingrid Newkirk directly to fight for the rights of animals and raise awareness of animal abuse and other inhumane practices. Both Goodall and Newkirk have an irrepressible love for animals and have dedicated their careers to improve the lives of all living things. Goodall and Newkirk live and promote cruelty-free, vegan lifestyles- savings hundreds of lives everyday. The use of animals in laboratories, the entertainment industry, the meat industry and the fur industry, are all horrible practices that Goodall and Newkirk firmly oppose and have worked tirelessly to end. Because of the speeches, movements, organizations and demonstrations lead by Goodall and Newkirk, the Earth is becoming a much safer place for animals- significantly increasingly human beings' respect and reverence for all creatures. In addition, Goodall and Newkirk have each published numerous books concerning healthy lifestyles that protect and respect the lives of animals. The public is now more aware than ever before of the unthinkable realities of slaughter houses, deforestation/habitat loss, and the testing of animals in laboraties- all thanks to the dedication and perserverence of incredible animal advocates such as Jane Goodall and Ingrid Newkirk. These influential women are still active members of today's global society and are constantly traveling the globe in order to educate others on topics concerning the ethical treatment of animals and their environment.

Q & A

Q: Hey Lauren! I was wondering, how long has Jane been a vegan? Was she your inspiration to go vegan? Great connection between Jane & Ingrid too! Very interesting. -Stella

A: Jane Goodall has been vegan for nearly her entire life (although I have not been able to find how many years exactly). She has written/published the book Harvest for Hope- dedicated to mindful eating that benefits the human body, animals and the environment with a central focus on vegetarianism and veganism. Dr. Goodall has also written countless forewards and introductions to vegan/vegetarian cookbooks and lifestyle manuals. Jane Goodall's amazing success and progress as a vegan (in addition to the innumerable physical, mental, spiritual and environmental benefits) was just another positive deciding factor that caused me to become a vegan myself.

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