Robert Ardrey Quotes
Robert Ardrey (1908-1980) was an American playwright, screenwriter, and author known for his works on human evolution and behavior. He was born in Chicago and studied at the University of Chicago and Cornell University. Ardrey’s most notable works include “African Genesis” (1961),…Read More
Robert Ardrey (1908-1980) was an American playwright, screenwriter, and author known for his works on human evolution and behavior. He was born in Chicago and studied at the University of Chicago and Cornell University. Ardrey’s most notable works include “African Genesis” (1961), “The Territorial Imperative” (1966), and “The Social Contract” (1970). These books challenged the prevailing scientific theories of the time and argued that human behavior is largely influenced by evolutionary instincts and territoriality. Ardrey’s ideas sparked controversy and debate in the scientific community, but also gained widespread popularity among the general public. He also wrote several successful plays and screenplays, including “Thunder Rock” (1939) and “The Three Musketeers” (1948). Ardrey’s works continue to be studied and discussed by anthropologists, psychologists, and sociologists, making him a significant figure in the field of human evolution and behavior.Read Less
Robert Ardrey (1908-1980) was an American playwright, screenwriter, and author known for his works on human evolution and behavior. He was born in Chicago and studied at the University of Chicago and Cornell University. Ardrey’s most notable works include “African Genesis” (1961), “The Territorial Imperative” (1966), and “The Social Contract” (1970). These books challenged the prevailing scientific theories of the time and argued that human behavior is largely influenced by evolutionary instincts and territoriality. Ardrey’s ideas sparked controversy and debate in the scientific community, but also gained widespread popularity among the general public. He also wrote several successful plays and screenplays, including “Thunder Rock” (1939) and “The Three Musketeers” (1948). Ardrey’s works continue to be studied and discussed by anthropologists, psychologists, and sociologists, making him a significant figure in the field of human evolution and behavior.
8 Top Robert Ardrey Quotes
Robert Ardrey Career Highlights
- Ardrey began his career as a playwright, writing several successful plays such as “Star Spangled” and “Thunder Rock.”
- In 1941, he moved to Hollywood and started working as a screenwriter for MGM Studios. He wrote screenplays for popular films like “The Three Musketeers” and “Madame Curie.”
- In the 1950s, Ardrey shifted his focus to anthropology and human evolution. He published his first book, “African Genesis,” in 1961, which became a bestseller and established him as a leading figure in the field.
- He went on to write several more books on human evolution, including “The Territorial Imperative” (1966) and “The Social Contract” (1970).
- Ardrey’s work was highly influential and sparked debates and discussions among scientists and academics. He was praised for his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public.
Key Contributions by Robert Ardrey
- Ardrey’s most significant contribution was his theory of human evolution, which challenged the prevailing belief at the time that humans were inherently peaceful and cooperative. He argued that humans, like other animals, have a strong instinct for territoriality and aggression.
- He also proposed the concept of the “Amity-Enmity Complex,” which suggests that humans have a natural tendency to form groups and cooperate with those within their group while being hostile towards those outside of it.
- Ardrey’s work also had a significant impact on the field of sociobiology, which studies the biological basis of social behavior. He was one of the first to apply evolutionary principles to human behavior and paved the way for future research in this area.
What Sets Robert Ardrey Apart
- Ardrey’s background as a playwright and screenwriter gave him a unique perspective on human behavior. He was able to use his storytelling skills to make complex scientific concepts more accessible and engaging for the general public.
- He was also known for his bold and controversial ideas, which often challenged the prevailing beliefs of the time. Despite facing criticism and backlash from some in the scientific community, Ardrey remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued to push the boundaries of traditional thinking.
Takeaways
- Robert Ardrey’s work has had a lasting impact on the fields of anthropology and human evolution. His theories and ideas continue to be studied and debated by scientists and academics.
- He showed that the study of human behavior cannot be separated from the study of evolution and that our animal instincts play a significant role in shaping our behavior.
- Ardrey’s ability to communicate complex ideas to a wider audience highlights the importance of making scientific knowledge accessible and relevant to the general public.
Other People
Playwright and screenwriter
· USA
1912
Playwright and screenwriter
1962
Playwright and screenwriter
· USA
1957
Playwright and screenwriter
· England
1924
