The Role of Human Dignity in Sustainability | Ron Chandler | TEDxUF
Dr. Ron Chandler's talk "The Role of Human Dignity in Sustainability" is about the centrality of human dignity in sustainability. With stories from the field, he presents examples of how selfish misguided efforts to bolster dignity actually destroy it, but actions to help others and to protect the land in which they live successfully improves the dignity of all. Dr. Ron Chandler is currently an Assistant Instructional Professor for UF Department of Psychology and the department’s Undergraduate Coordinator. He has Bachelor of Science from Stephen F. Austin State University in Aquatic Biology and Wildlife Science, a Master of Science in Limnology and Aquatic Chemistry from Texas State University, and a PhD in Educational Psychology from Walden University. He teaches classes in the Psychology of Sustainability, Social Psychology, and Positive Psychology. Ron is also cofounder and president of Conservation Initiative for the Asian Elephant (CIFAE) a 501 (c)3 (2000). CIFAE’s mission is to “identify issues of critical importance to the sustainability of the Asian elephant and the peoples sharing its habitat.” This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx
Пікірлер: 424
listening to him speak about his personal crisis after losing a connection with nature resonated with me deeply. It's like a wound that just sits there.
I have been fortunate enough to meet Ron; this cause is so important and the work he does will help change the world. Please share this talk.
@AlyssaBrown-dj6zz
Ай бұрын
His dedication to elephants and conservation is inspiring.
@janetsplace1953
Ай бұрын
Loved this talk Jonathan, what a lovely man and a lovely purpose.
@theothersideofego
29 күн бұрын
@@janetsplace1953 agreed 100%
@theothersideofego
29 күн бұрын
@EstherHarper-gq9gc welcome!
@theothersideofego
29 күн бұрын
@EstherHarper-gq9gc my pleasure..
This is wonderful. We need more compassionate approaches to all issues we currently face
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "lollo-lia"!
@DreadCityAngel
Ай бұрын
I agree. I think there are some great solutions to be found
@lovelanguagecoach
Ай бұрын
I think so too! If we can get back to a place where the things that we need as humans are being honored and prioritized there's such a huge opportunity for worldwide positive change
@DreadCityAngel
Ай бұрын
@@lovelanguagecoach Haha wouldn't that be incredible, people accting and treating one another like people?
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
Thank you@@lovelanguagecoach and @dreadcityangel!
This is a great shift in the way we approach global issues! Anything that challenges the traditional top-down approach and acknowledges the importance of local perspectives - something that is often, sadly, overlooked by people who think they know what's best
@cifae7468
2 ай бұрын
Thank you, "schalomtaylor9448"!
@DandriaPerkins
2 ай бұрын
Ron, I commend and support your endeavors wholeheartedly!
@JoynishaMoore
2 ай бұрын
To be honest, witnessing someone's intense dedication towards creating an impact is a revitalizing experience.
@CaydenTaylor-nv3he
2 ай бұрын
Is it feasible to maintain human dignity while fulfilling the demands of our present lifestyle, despite this being a beautiful concept?
@BrunaRocha-im7in
2 ай бұрын
It's as if they're trying to constantly remind us of the significance of nature - we already understand its importance.
The Elephants yes please. Dignity is such a beautiful word. This make me think of the corporate world when something isn't right, "don't mention the Elephant in the room." Thank you for talking about all of this!
@jamesbowie4540
4 ай бұрын
He's got all the things going on.
@RainbowPassion
4 ай бұрын
What? Lol I get that the saying has the word elephant in it but beyond that what does the one have to do with the other?
@ZarinaGonzalez-mp1rh
4 ай бұрын
Impressive! Shows that sustainability isn't just about policies, but also about mindset.
@PaulinaMarti-cp2nn
4 ай бұрын
Love the interdisciplinary approach here. Psychology and sustainability are a powerful combo!
@AlyssaBrown-dj6zz
4 ай бұрын
tbh, i’m not entirely sold on this. sounds a bit too theoretical?
I think this story really wonderfully highlights the importance of understanding local perspectives in conservation. It's not just about saving nature; it's about respecting the people intertwined with it. Well done!
@rebeccadcarl
2 ай бұрын
Definitely, I get so frustrated with stories where a group comes in thinking they can help better than what the locals know of the situtation
@shimmikang
2 ай бұрын
I think so too. Such a valuable angle to consider
@AfraBenson
2 ай бұрын
It is truly refreshing to observe that conservation efforts are emphasizing the importance of the human element.
@CallenPitts
2 ай бұрын
I understand your perspective, but occasionally difficult choices must be made for the benefit of everyone.
@JeimyPatrick
2 ай бұрын
This is absolutely true! It's important to collaborate with local communities rather than oppose them.
Why isn't this more widely understood and discussed? The idea that our actions today, especially those that are for human diginity and our environment will seriously shape how we get on in the future. Gotta make it count!
@AshleyBianco-mp2dt
3 ай бұрын
Interesting talk, but how do we measure the impact of sustainability psychology?
@AlyssaBrown-dj6zz
3 ай бұрын
dr. chandler's vision of a world where human dignity and nature coexist is truly inspiring.
@AllegriaIadanza
3 ай бұрын
It’s refreshing to see such a unique approach to sustainability. Definitely a game changer!
@StarPointExodus
3 ай бұрын
Well from the sounds of things it isn't something that's been explored that much. I think problems that are attempted to be solved by people who aren't native to the places where the problems occur struggle to understand, that's the whole point. This shows the way we're starting to shift our empathy and approach things from the other point of view
@StarPointExodus
3 ай бұрын
@@RebeccaEvans-lx3bw wtf are you talking about
His journey is really inspiring and I think it's a reminder that our personal stories shape our contributions to the world. Great to see TEDx highlighting such important work!
the concept of sustainability psychology is such a game changer. amazing work here!
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Thanks so much! Developing the field and placing it the classroom and public discussion has been deeply rewarding.
@TerriBrown-ty8hw
4 ай бұрын
Honestly, I'm skeptical. It's one thing to talk about these concepts, another to implement them.
@JoynishaMoore
4 ай бұрын
Finally, someone addressing the human aspect in sustainability. This is crucial!
@SteevieMatthews
4 ай бұрын
I'm not entirely convinced. Seems a bit idealistic, don't you think?
@JushawnHarper
4 ай бұрын
gotta say, this talk made me think differently about how we interact with nature.
It’s refreshing to see someone tackle sustainability from a psychological perspective and to have it be successful too!
Is there an ethical place to meet elephants?
@WilliamSmithnotthatone
16 күн бұрын
Thailand and India have opportunities to meet or ride on elephants, but it's difficult to know how well the animals are being cared for.
@robertjnoble
16 күн бұрын
My wife and daughter went to Thailand in July. They went to an animal sanctuary, near Chiang Mai, they were allowed to meet rescued animals, and especially elephants. They were asked to stay at least 10 feet away, for their safety. By no means were they allowed to ride on the animals.
@thomas-meyer
16 күн бұрын
@@robertjnoble Yeah I don't think anywhere that you can ride the elephants is ethical.
@CelestialCentric
15 күн бұрын
I think only in the wild on a safe tour that doesn't encroach too much on them
@Notthefootykevinrooney
15 күн бұрын
agree in the wild is the only spot...
I resonate with your journey, Ron. Connecting human dignity with nature protection is profound. It's a reminder that conservation is not just about the environment but about us.
@KalaPope
2 ай бұрын
Great share, thanks for sending it to me
@SteevieMatthews
2 ай бұрын
Yes! Finally, someone understands the importance of balance and respect.
@DeriviaGraham
2 ай бұрын
While I partially agree, we must also make certain that conservationism is not neglected.
@NerriahRose
2 ай бұрын
It's not just about preserving nature, but also building meaningful relationships with others.
@JazzraDixon
2 ай бұрын
I completely agree with you on this.
I resonate with your experience of feeling disconnected when your surroundings changed. It's incredible how reconnecting with nature can help rebuild our identity. I think this is part of why it's so important that people spend time in nature, it gives us a bit more scope as to what being human actually is.
Chandler's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication. Truly inspiring!
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "alexjohns"!
It's great that Ron's organization is focusing on helping communities alongside protecting animals. Such an amazing approach that will make a difference long term as well as immediately.
@cifae7468
9 күн бұрын
Thank you, "@giovann-is-herei"!!
the connection between our dignity and how we treat the environment is something i've never thought about before. really makes you think.
The TEDx stage always brings diverse and thought-provoking ideas. This is no exception.
@rebeccadcarl
2 ай бұрын
Such a great talk!
The story of the Garo Hills is so powerful. It shows the impact of respecting local communities.
The emphasis on human dignity as central to sustainability efforts was a perspective I hadn't considered deeply before. This talk really bridges the gap between environmental science and social justice in a thought-provoking way.
It's refreshing to see someone acknowledge the dignity of people affected by environmental changes.
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "dariasotnykova"!
Ron's story is so inspiring! It's crazy how something as simple as moving to a city could make you feel so disconnected from nature. But I love how he turned that into a passion for protecting it.
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
@jettseverson, thank you!
The connection between dignity, nature, and well-being is profound. Ron's talk made me reflect on my own spirituality and how it intertwines with our environment.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you, "alex..."!
Chandler's emphasis on community involvement in conservation is key. It's not just about the animals.
the connection between psychology and environmental conservation is eye-opening.
Dr. Chandler's journey from ecologist to psychologist is so inspiring. Shows how passion can lead to impactful changes.
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Thank you, "Jacke", in retrospect it seems like a natural journey/transition!
Can't help but start to ponder the interconnected we have with all of nature after watching Ron's talk here. Quite beautiful.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you!
It's extremely compelling when scientists incorporate themes of humanity and spirituality into their work. Dr. Chandler is an especially gifted scientist; his understanding of the world, humans, the environment, and the universe is unmatched. Great job! What an inspiration!
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thanks so much Maya!
@SingularDesire
3 ай бұрын
I think so too. It's a reminder of how interconnected everything on our planet is. That's something that should be honored.
The journey from aspiring ecologist to psychology and elephant conservation is inspirational.
ron chandler's commitment to education and the environment is so admirable.
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Thank you, "lanab"!
The part about his childhood dreams of being an ecologist was so relatable!
Ooh I love what he says about his sense of self being linked to his dignity. Couldn't agree more.
"start with dignity" - such a simple yet powerful takeaway.
@Charlize-Z
13 күн бұрын
yes, and an approach we should be taking in all aspects of our lives
The link between human dignity and environmental conservation is a perspective shift we all need. Thanks for shedding light on such a crucial connection!
@fionatruscott
2 ай бұрын
Absolutely! I think it makes you understand a little more about the different cultures as well
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
You are welcome, "donschuster", thank you!
The connection between human dignity and nature, as you describe it, resonates deeply. Nature isn't just a backdrop; it's intertwined with our sense of self and well-being. This is something a lot of us seem to have forgotten or sadly, never even experienced.
@rebeccadcarl
2 ай бұрын
Yes!!! What you've said about it not being a backdrop really strikes a chord, that is how a lot of people think of it isn't it? Or as a retreat/escape not something that should be a major part of everyones everyday lives!
Human dignity as the heart of sustainability is a compelling concept. We need more talks like this.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you, "Julie..." !
This talk had me reflecting on my own connection with nature and how it shapes my sense of self. His story of rebuilding dignity through ecology is both relatable and motivating.
The journey from questioning the purpose of your work to focusing on the dignity of people and nature is truly inspiring. We need more narratives like this in the environmental discourse.
@cifae7468
2 ай бұрын
Thank you, "sandypogson"!
I think his example of empowering local communities in the Garo Hills is a powerful demonstration of the effectiveness of dignity-centered conservation. It shows that collaboration and respect can lead to sustainable solutions and honestly I'd love to see more of it in different aspects of conservation
The emphasis on humanity offers a profound insight into solving ecological issues.
The story at the 4:22 minute mark brought me to tears. So incredible that the matriarch elephant knew where the water was
What an inspiration to all of us. Taking action and creating an initiative to save Asian elephants.
@sofiatclara
4 ай бұрын
It's also saving the people in those communities
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Thank you!!
Love the blend of psychology and environmental science in his approach. Really innovative!
the concept of human dignity in sustainability is new to me, but it makes total sense. Great talk!
The story of the matriarch leading her herd during a drought is amazing. It shows the wisdom that nature holds and the lessons we can draw from it.
As someone who's also passionate about ecology, I appreciate your perspective on the intersection of human dignity and environmental sustainability. Your work is making a real difference in the world.
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "theLadyMuffin" and for your passion for ecology!
It's amazing to see how he turned that experience into a lifelong mission for conservation.
This talk gave me all the feels! Ron's connection with elephants is heartwarming. Who wouldn't want to save these magnificent creatures?
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@fionatruscott
2 ай бұрын
Absolutely! They're one of my favorites too
@axelrespert3498
2 ай бұрын
they're pretty dope. Hippos are the best though
His passion for ecology is so palpable and his insight into the psychological aspects of conservation are so fascinating!! I think it's true that understanding why people do what they do is crucial when attempting any kind of change within a situation
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "aaronereid"!
Your emphasis on the human-centered approach is commendable. We must prioritize the people living alongside nature for any conservation effort to be sustainable. Well said!
@Charlize-Z
13 күн бұрын
Definitely, it makes a lot of sense in terms of preventing the issue from just arising over and over
This makes me think about how we can incorporate dignity in our daily efforts towards sustainability.
I've seen the beauty of nature and the atrocities committed against it. The connection between personal dignity and nature is profound. The realization that saving nature is also rebuilding one's sense of self is truly eye-opening.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you!!
@SingularDesire
3 ай бұрын
It is a really poignant connection to make, hopefully it's a line of thinking that catches quickly
I had no idea about the connection between dignity and sustainability. This was an eye-opener!
That story about the Garo Hills gave me chills! Who could imagine empowering local people could be so powerful?
@cifae7468
16 күн бұрын
@charlessaddington, thank you!
The five facets of sustainability model, with human dignity at its core, offers a comprehensive framework for addressing environmental challenges. It's refreshing to hear about such holistic approaches in the field of sustainability.
@cifae7468
16 күн бұрын
@hubert-olszewski, thank you!
@hubert-olszewski
14 күн бұрын
@@cifae7468 very welcome.... awesome work
I'm so touched by this Ron Chandler. Nature has given me life. Thank you for doing what your doing and make the choices that led you here!
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
I am grateful that this has touched you and that it has has touched me!
I think it's really amazing how our connection with nature can shape our sense of self. It's something I've noticed lately with my group of friends, some people are forest people, some are ocean people but overall you can just tell the difference between nature people and people who dgaf
I think this story highlights the importance of environmental education and the impact it can have on shaping our future. Thank you for your dedication to protecting nature and inspiring others to do the same.
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
Thank you, "malavikavarada"!
Human dignity as a sustainability core? Mind-blowing concept!
@lovelanguagecoach
Ай бұрын
It's awesome isn't it? Like rethinking the world in such a beautiful way
Really makes you think about our approach to sustainability.
He makes such a great point about those big high rises and their lack of sustainability. Where I live they've torn down literally 3/4's of the block to build a 20 story apartment block. Hoping to move before it's finished because I can't imagine the impact of having an extra 5000 people in my area.
Realizing that environmental work isn't just about ecology but also psychology was a pretty huge thing for me. I love the way his team used that and got such amazing results from those locals with it. I think that involvement will be crucial for some of the decisions we make in terms of sustainability
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you, "Brandon", being inclusive, humble, and respectful, that is learning from those that experience the problem has made all the difference.
Man, this video totally took me back to my childhood when I was obsessed with Cousteau.
Love the Galle Hills story! I think it shows how powerful it is when you involve the local communities in decisions that directly affect them. Crazy how something that seems so obvious seems to have fallen by the wayside
@cifae7468
2 ай бұрын
Thank you, "lazerkittythetrue"!
It's interesting that a lot of the time we think the paths we take will be the ones we'll be on our whole lives but they're often just leading to something bigger ❤
I'm in awe of his change of direction. From wanting to be a marine biologists to saving the elephants. An inspiring human!
@SingularDesire
3 ай бұрын
I don't actually think it's that big of jump TBH both paths involve the preservation of our environment and wildlife
@cifae7468
9 күн бұрын
@suehawke thank you!
Ron Chandler's journey from a young boy inspired by Jacques Cousteau to a psychologist focusing on human dignity in sustainability is just fascinating!
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
Thank you "owow6523"!
TedX always delivers. This talk was no different - informative and engaging.
It's fascinating how a love for animals can inspire a whole new approach to conservation.
The passion for ecology and psychology shines through. Very insightful.
@sahavasilev8787
Ай бұрын
Yeah you can really tell he cares about what he's doing
I never thought about the psychological side of conservation before. This is groundbreaking stuff.
As an ecology student, this talk gives me a lot to think about in terms of my future career.
reminded me of how important it is to consider the human aspect.
I really love this approach! If we can think of all the worlds problems as social issues and apply this same kind of empathetic and compassionate thinking towards them, it would create a lot of positive change 💚
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
Absolutely, "rebeccadcarl", thank you!
@rebeccadcarl
21 күн бұрын
@@cifae7468 thank you!!
Real talk here and I loved his reframe about chasing our dreams - gotta take the struggles in stride, working the odd and awful jobs. Clearly worth it once you're getting to do what you'd always hoped!
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thanks so much!
@rebeccadcarl
2 ай бұрын
Absolutely! They all help on the path to where you're going
Love this story and that there's someone who seeks to understand 💜💜
Love this!! Sustainability is inclusivity🙏🏾
@sofiatclara
4 ай бұрын
💜💜💜💜
I think there's something to be said for the impact of nature on a persons identity. It was nice to hear about him rebuilding his sense of self through ecology after having moved as a kid to a more industrial area. I think this happens to a lot of people but then they never really go back to appreciating nature.
This is such an incredible journey! Love the dedication to becoming an ecologist despite the challenges.
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you, "1ElementalTeam1"!
So rare to see someone really delve into how the connection between spirit and the environment come hand in hand.
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Thank you!!
@SingularDesire
3 ай бұрын
Yes! It's really wonderful to see
Wow conservation is much more about people than I would have ever realized.
The childhood connection to Jacques Cousteau and the transformation of that passion into elephant conservation is a powerful example of what happens when someone is willing to adapt their dreams to what the world needs.
@cifae7468
2 ай бұрын
Well said, thank you!
@TheBoldBazooka
2 ай бұрын
thank you for what you do! @@cifae7468
Fantastic information and the blending of two important fields.
This ties together the importance of dignity in both human and environmental contexts.
@lovelanguagecoach
Ай бұрын
I agree, there is such a need for us to return to the core of what being human means
The story about the matriarch elephant leading her herd to water during a drought was so moving. It really illustrates the intelligence and dignity of elephants, and why we must fight to protect them!
@cifae7468
16 күн бұрын
Absolutely, "@thelamrirachid", thank you!
@thelamrirachid
11 күн бұрын
@@cifae7468 im with you, great work!
Never thought about psychology being so important for conservation! But it makes perfect sense. If we can understand why people poach or destroy habitats, we can find better solutions.
Yo, this vid hit different. Ron went from 'I'm gonna be an ecologist' to 'I'm saving elephants.' Dude's a legend. Respect!
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Wow, "ranger...", thank you!
@fionatruscott
2 ай бұрын
Lol he sure did
@shimmikang
2 ай бұрын
I think saving elephants is part of ecology though isn't it?
@axelrespert3498
2 ай бұрын
@@fionatruscott 😂😂😂
This story gives me hope! Like, he's out here saving elephants and changing the game. Makes me think about what I can do to make a difference, you know?
What a turn around - from wanting to be the next Jacques Cousteau to saving elephants. You're an inspiration to all.
@cifae7468
2 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@victhatsme
2 ай бұрын
@@cifae7468 your talk means a lot to many, keep doing what you do its important
@cifae7468
Ай бұрын
Thank you,@@victhatsme, will do!
His personal story really added depth to the talk. Moving from Florida to Dallas must have been a huge shift.
@cifae7468
4 ай бұрын
Hi "EliMYoung" it was and interestingly it was the move/shift that made all the difference. Thank you!
thank you for sharing your story. It's a reminder that sometimes our greatest challenges lead us to our true calling.
@cifae7468
24 күн бұрын
You are welcome, "myadanco", and absolutely!
I love how Ron empowered the Garo people to shape their own future. It's not about saving them; it's about giving them the tools to save themselves and their land.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Absolutely, "pablo...", allowing them the dignity to determine how they want to go forward and helping them do so.
This is a unique perspective to sustainability, emphasizing human dignity.
@DreadCityAngel
Ай бұрын
It is and that's kind of sad don't you think? I'd like to see it be the normal thing
@sahavasilev8787
Ай бұрын
@@DreadCityAngel What's sad is how often we forget to act from a place of dignity in all aspects of our life.
@sahavasilev8787
Ай бұрын
@@DreadCityAngel Like it just seems to be a forgotten trait
This whole "dignity" thing really makes sense. People who feel hopeless or unseen are more likely to do desperate things.
As long as there are people in the world like this I feels there's hope we can undo some of the damage we've done.
@cifae7468
3 ай бұрын
Thank you, "Team-Cozy" together we make that happen!
I would love to see these ideals applied to the modern urban landscape. I think if we were allowed more dignity in our built environments it would drastically improve our daily life.
The question he raises around the 6:35 mark is a very good one.
@DreadCityAngel
Ай бұрын
I think so too
Well this has definitely convinced me about the importance of dignity in relation to how people perceive and treat their surroundings. It makes a lot of sense really and when you think about how people even in western societies are deprived of their dignity... it kind of adds up to something scary, in my mind anyway.
What a different outcome for the people who were given dignity and paid to help with the research and field work.
@RainbowPassion
4 ай бұрын
Absolutely, and the way it built up the rapport to the point they could trust her is such a beautiful outcome
Great talk! 👏🏻
saving elephants to save ourselves - what a profound message.