The more we learn of the true nature of nonhuman animals, especially those with complex brains and corresponding complex social behavior, the more ethical concerns are raised regarding their use in the service of man—whether this be in entertainment, as "pets," for food, in research laboratories, or any of the other uses to which we subject them.

About Jane Goodall

Dame Valerie Jane Morris-Goodall ( GUUD-awl; 3 April 1934 – 1 October 2025) was an English primatologist and anthropologist. Regarded as a pioneer in primate ethology, and described by many publications as "the world's preeminent chimpanzee expert", she was best known for more than six decades of field research on...

More quotations from Jane Goodall

There are an awful lot of scientists today who believe that before very long we shall have unraveled all the secrets of the universe. There will be no puzzles anymore. To me it'd be really, really tragic because I think one of the most exciting things is this feeling of mystery, feeling of awe, the feeling of looking at a little live thing and being amazed by it and how its emerged through these hundreds of years of evolution and there it is and it is perfect and why.

—Jane Goodall

I think the best evenings are when we have messages, things that make us think, but we can also laugh and enjoy each other's company.

—Jane Goodall

Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.

—Jane Goodall

People say to me so often, 'Jane how can you be so peaceful when everywhere around you people want books signed, people are asking these questions and yet you seem peaceful,' and I always answer that it is the peace of the forest that I carry inside.

—Jane Goodall

Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don't believe is right.

—Jane Goodall

History

11 Jul 2015 Added
26 Oct 2026 Wording changed

Previous wording

The more we learn of the true nature of nonhuman animals, especially those with complex brains and corresponding complex social behavior, the more ethical concerns are raised regarding their use in the service of man — whether this be in entertainment, as "pets," for food, in research laboratories, or any of the other uses to which we subject them.