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"I think using animals for food is an ethical thing to do, but we've got to do it right. We've got to give those animals a decent life and we've got to give them a painless death. We owe the animal respect."
When Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism as a young girl, professionals suggested that she be put in an institution. But Temple's mother refused. Instead, she worked hard to give Temple the education and support that she felt Temple deserved.
Though Temple was considered odd throughout her early school days, she found her niche in college: she loved cattle. More than that, she felt that her autism gave her special insight into their minds. After receiving a bachelor's degree in psychology, Temple switched her focus to cattle and went on to earn masters and doctorate degrees in animal science.
Eventually, Temple developed revolutionary systems and equipment for handling cattle. She advocated more humane processes that gave cattle a better quality of life with reduced stress. Now half of the cattle in America use her animal-friendly designs.
Today, at age 63, Temple is arguably the most accomplished and well-known adult with autism in the world. Over her lifetime, she has authored numerous books on both cattle and autism. She is currently a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University, and she spends significant time travelling the world to increase awareness of autism and cattle treatment.
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Check Out This Video!
BBC's The Woman Who Thinks Like a Cow*Also, check out the HBO's award-winning Temple Grandin, based on her life and starring Claire Danes. You won't be disappointed.
