#50 | Ecology & Ethics: Dr. Janet Rumfelt on Protecting Animal, Human, and Planetary Health
Thoughtful activism, driven by authentic ethical conviction, is the most powerful force for change.
In this enlightening episode, Dr. Janet Rumfelt, Board Chair of the African Network for Animal Welfare USA (ANAW USA) and professor of Environmental Studies at Regis University, shares her profound insights into the symbiotic relationship between humans, animals, and our shared environment. She reflects on how her academic background in religion, ethics, and philosophy has shaped her understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Dr. Rumfelt discusses ANAW’S mission in Kenya and other African nations, emphasizing the role of education and sustainable livelihood initiatives in protecting endangered species and combating illegal poaching. She shares her journey in animal welfare and environmental conservation, highlighting the value of curiosity and a beginner's mind.
'The philosophy that we [ANAW] have is One Health, which is the notion that the welfare of people, planet, and non-human animals is intertwined...what's good for animals is good for people is good for the environment.' — Dr. Janet Rumfelt
The episode delves into how ethics, religion, and philosophy can enhance activism, drawing on teachings from figures like Pope Francis, Buddhist leader Thich Nhat Hanh, and indigenous leaders. It explores environmental ethics through various lenses, including biocentrism, eco-centrism, and anthropocentrism, and underscores the importance of interconnection and interdependence.
Additionally, Dr. Rumfelt discusses the Master of Arts Specialization in Environmental Studies at Regis University and the ANAW-USA Veterinary Service Trip in Tanzania coming in spring, 2024. . These initiatives highlight the episode's central theme: the vital role of education and regenerative virtues in creating a harmonious and sustainable world.
