What would "living like chimpanzees" mean and would you like that lifestyle?
After everyone had a chance to respond to this prompt, we discussed the various responses that people had come up with. In general, people felt that to live like a chimpanzee would be to live simply, but in luxury. Chimpanzees do not do much, but there isn't a lot they want either. They search for food and spend time together.
We talked about how free time and relaxed living is one kind of luxury while there are other luxuries (books, internet, air conditioning, a bed that has a mattress) that require people to work for them.
Next, we began watching Grizzly Man in which Timothy Treadwell studies grizzly bears in Alaska in much the same way Jane Goodall studied chimpanzees in Africa, by staying near them until they became used to her and then observing them.
While watching the movie, everyone completed notes on the film (see handouts below).
Handouts:
Grizzly Man viewing notes
If you were not in class: you can start reading the article from Vanity Fair (below) about Treadwell and take notes from it using the viewing sheet.
Vanity Fair Article on Treadwell
Homework:
Identify and discuss the significance of the notes you took today on the Grizzly Man movie.
Revisions:
"Living Like Weasels" reading questions (due Friday, 3/6)
Concentric circles: civic action discussion reflection (due Friday 3/6)
