JRE #657 – Corey Knowlton

Joe Rogan Experience #657 – Corey Knowlton

This podcast features a captivating conversation with Corey Knowlton, an international hunting expert known for his controversial $350,000 bid to kill a black rhino in Namibia. Rogan dives deep into the ethics of conservation hunting, the complexities of animal rights, and the passionate debate surrounding the practice.

Major Topics Explored:

1. Conservation Hunting and the Rhino Auction:
   • Corey Knowlton’s decision to bid and kill a black rhino in Namibia for conservation purposes.
   • The counterintuitive nature of killing endangered animals to protect them.
   • The controversy surrounding the auction and the accusations of trophy hunting.
   • The thorough vetting process and the intended use of the funds for rhino conservation.
2. The Ethics of Hunting and Animal Rights:
   • The distinction between hunting for food and trophy hunting.
   • The argument that hunting can be a tool for conservation, especially in managing populations.
   • The passionate opposition from animal rights activists, and the potential for misinterpretation of hunters’ motives.
   • The question of whether humans have the right to intervene in the natural cycle of predator and prey.
3. The Importance of Context and Information:
   • The disconnect between public perception of elephants and their actual status in specific regions.
   • The need for informed opinions and the dangers of relying on sensationalized headlines and social media outrage.
   • The complex realities of wildlife management, population control, and human-animal interactions in diverse ecosystems.
   • The role of experts in conservation and the limitations of relying solely on emotional responses.
4. The Impact of Technology on Hunting and Conservation:
   • The rise of social media and its influence on public perception of hunting, magnifying controversy and creating a rush to judgment.
   • The evolution of hunting practices, from traditional methods to more sophisticated techniques and technology.
   • The impact of drones on hunting and the changing dynamics of human-wildlife interactions in remote areas.
   • The potential for technology to improve conservation efforts, but also the risks of unintended consequences.
5. Corey Knowlton’s Personal Journey and Experiences:
   • Knowlton’s early passion for hunting, starting with birds and graduating to big game hunting.
   • His unique experiences hunting in diverse environments, from Nepal to Africa.
   • The challenges and rewards of hunting, including the physical and mental demands, the bonds formed with fellow hunters, and the impact on his worldview.
   • His perspective on the emotional and philosophical aspects of hunting, including the sense of connection to nature and the cycle of life.
6. The Hypocrisy of Modern Society and Animal Welfare:
   • The disconnect between the outrage over hunting and the widespread use of animal products in everyday life.
   • The contradiction of those who condemn hunting while consuming meat, wearing leather, and contributing to factory farming practices.
   • The need for introspection and a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between humans and animals in a modern world.
   • The challenge of promoting responsible and ethical practices across the spectrum of human-animal interactions.
7. The Importance of Personal Responsibility and Action:
   • Knowlton’s call for people to engage with information, form their own opinions, and go beyond knee-jerk reactions and social media outrage.
   • The emphasis on supporting conservation efforts, whether through direct action, financial contributions, or responsible consumption.
   • The recognition that individual choices have consequences for the environment and the well-being of animals.
   • The need for a shift towards a more holistic understanding of conservation and a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of life.
8. The Power of Understanding and Empathy:
   • Knowlton’s commitment to educating others about hunting and conservation, even those who hold opposing viewpoints.
   • The importance of engaging in dialogue and seeking understanding, rather than resorting to hostility and judgment.
   • The recognition that even seemingly extreme perspectives can be rooted in genuine concern for animals and the environment.
   • The potential for shared values and common ground to emerge from respectful and open conversation.
9. The Role of Hunting in Cultural Heritage:
   • The long history of hunting as a fundamental aspect of human survival and cultural practices.
   • The importance of understanding the cultural context of hunting in different societies.
   • The potential for hunting to connect people to nature and their heritage.
   • The need to balance conservation with the traditions and livelihoods of indigenous communities.
10. The Importance of a Balanced Perspective:
    • Knowlton’s belief that hunting can play a valuable role in conservation, but acknowledging the need for responsible and ethical practices.
    • The recognition that there is no single “right” answer when it comes to complex issues like conservation and animal rights.
    • The importance of considering the multifaceted nature of these issues and recognizing the value of diverse perspectives.
    • The need to move beyond simplistic narratives and embrace nuanced and informed dialogue.
11. The Importance of Personal Growth and Self-Reflection:
    • Knowlton’s personal journey and his evolution as a hunter, recognizing the impact of his experiences on his worldview.
    • The importance of self-reflection and questioning one’s beliefs and actions, particularly when confronted with challenging situations.
    • The role of hunting as a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper understanding of human nature.
    • The value of challenging one’s own biases and embracing a more open and compassionate approach to life.

Memorable Quotes:

1. “I’ve always felt very strongly about conservation and hunting, ever since I was young. ” – Corey Knowlton expresses his deep-rooted passion for hunting and its role in conservation.
2. “In order to get people to spend $350,000 to save the rhino, just to just to donate to save it, Without hunting, it’s pretty difficult.” – Knowlton highlights the challenge of securing substantial donations for conservation without the incentive of hunting.
3. “You don’t hunt to kill. You kill to have hunted in a lot of ways.” – Knowlton emphasizes that hunting is not simply about killing but about the experience, the connection to nature, and the skills involved.
4. “The real Timo and Pumba are out there fighting for their lives… and would eat you.” – Rogan contrasts the idealized Disney characters with the harsh reality of the animal kingdom, highlighting the importance of understanding nature’s complexities.
5. “If it pays, it will stay, period.” – Knowlton highlights the economic reality of conservation, emphasizing that financial incentives are essential for protecting wildlife.