Overview
Dr. Randall L. Eaton presents a compelling lecture that examines hunting as a rite of passage. The presentation emphasizes how ethical hunting practices foster emotional growth, responsibility, and respect for nature in young people.
Lecture Focus
- Hunting as a traditional initiation into adulthood
- Transformational impact of subsistence hunting on delinquent youth
- Evolutionary and cultural insights into carnivory and ethics
- Role of hunting in forming identity, discipline, and self-worth
Recognition and Endorsements
Dr. Eaton is widely recognized for his engaging and impactful speaking style:
- “Dr. Eaton’s messages are powerful and inspiring.” – Mark Holmes, Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters
- “Inspiring talk.” – Eric Nuse, Vermont Hunter Education Coordinator
- “Profound orator.” – Mikel Kolson, Hunter Ed Instructor
- “Deserved the standing ovation… needs to be heard by all.” – Ed Mankelow, B.C. Wildlife Federation
- “It was Dr. Randall Eaton who electrified the audience.” – San Antonio Light
- “Fascinating, stimulating… very significant impact on students.” – Dr. Pete Bromley, North Carolina State
About the Speaker
Dr. Eaton is an internationally known expert in animal behavior, human evolution, and conservation ethics. His appearances include:
- PBS NOVA, CBS, FOX National News, and ABC TV
- Interviews in the LA Times, the NY Times, the Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, the Saturday Review, NPR, and the BBC
Career Highlights
- Editor of The Human/Animal Connection, featuring contributions from Gary Snyder and Paul Shepard
- Editor of Carnivore: Interfacing Biology, Anthropology, and Environmental Studies
- Author of The Human Carnivore and From Boys to Men of Heart
- Producer of The Sacred Hunt, winner of seven awards
- Faculty roles in zoology, psychology, wildlife biology, and humanities at major universities
- Pipe Holder in the Cherokee tradition
- Research Associate, Circumpolar Institute, University of Alberta
- Advisor to World Conservation Force
Speaking Engagements
Dr. Eaton has presented this lecture to various organizations and academic institutions:
- British Columbia Wildlife Federation
- Vermont Hunter Education Instructors’ Annual Banquet
- Safari Club International Annual Conference
- Mzuri Safari Club Foundation
- International Council of Conservation
- Game Conservation International
- Outdoor Writers Association of America
- Universities including North Carolina State, Clemson, Tennessee, and Western Wyoming College
Related Work
This lecture draws on Dr. Eaton’s article “Why Hunting Is Good Medicine for Youth,” featured in his book From Boys to Men of Heart: Hunting as Rite of Passage and the Recovery of Nature-Culture.
Reader Responses
- “Very interesting, provocative, and very timely.” – Valerius Geist, Professor Emeritus, University of Calgary
- “Beautiful.” – Gary Thornton, Executive Director, Dallas Safari Club
- “Gets through to the psyches of anyone with a beating heart.” – Jim Eaglesmith, Medicine Man and Musician
- “What a good article!” – Duba Leibell, Producer and Screenwriter