Jane Goodall, the pioneering primatologist and conservationist, passed away on Oct. 1 at the age of 91. Goodall’s passing is not just a loss to the science community but a reminder of how empathy shapes the future. Her legacy proves that the most transformative breakthroughs in science are not born from detachment but from compassion and humanity.

Born in England in 1934, Goodall spent her days outdoors. She enjoyed watching birds and squirrels in her backyard, perched on the branches of her favorite tree. When she was not observing nature, she was getting lost in books, like “Tarzan” and “Dr. Dolittle.” 

These stories fueled a dream of visiting Africa that would carry Goodall to Tanzania at 26. She would spend the next six decades at the Gombe Stream, observing and reshaping the world’s understanding of wild chimpanzees.

At a time of rigid scientific dehumanization, Goodall’s work was hugely radical — breaking molds with her deep-rooted compassion for wildlife. Many peers dismissed her attentiveness as “unscientific,” accusing her of anthropomorphizing chimpanzees, yet it was her refusal to strip away empathy that opened the door to groundbreaking discoveries: chimpanzees use tools, feel emotion and share more in common with humans than science once admitted.

In a 2002 essay for Time, Goodall warned, “The greatest danger to our future is apathy.” She carried this message into her lifelong advocacy, where reverence to both intellect and kindness shaped her call for humanity’s coexistence with the natural world. She paved paths for scientists and activists alike, gently nudging them to meet in a converging road — a methodical and empathetic regard for the future.

As the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, she devoted her later years to environmental and humanitarian work. Goodall established the youth-led Roots & Shoots program to inspire “compassionate citizens” into action and embarked on worldwide speaking tours, urging audiences to recognize the connection between biodiversity and human survival.

A true champion of hope, Goodall was a blueprint of conviction and quiet bravery — leaving a legacy that made science human again. She proved that empathy and intellect are not opposites, but partners in truth-seeking. 

In the words of the New York Times, “There will always only be one Jane Goodall.”

To honor her legacy, readers can support the Jane Goodall Institute or local organizations that protect wildlife and ecosystems.