In this World, there is a strong desire to be normal and to behave normally. Because of this, we try to confine humans into boxes, starting from school, and we don’t allow different brains to flourish in what they do best. When we do, we are able to invent new things and look at things from a different perspective. Temple Grandin is an example of someone who was allowed to do that.
Born in 1947 and diagnosed with autism as a child, Grandin used her unique perspective to gain deep insights into animal behavior, which she then translated into groundbreaking animal welfare improvements. Grandin’s journey began with a personal connection to and a deep empathy for animals, which she viewed as akin to her experiences with sensory sensitivity. Her autism allowed her to see the world through the eyes of the animals, leading to an intuitive understanding of the fear and stress animals experience in traditional handling systems.
One of Grandin’s major contributions to animal welfare is her design of curved cattle corrals, intended to promote a natural flow of movement. Observing that animals are more willing to follow a curved path where they cannot see the end, Grandin’s designs significantly reduce stress and panic during handling. This innovation is now widely adopted in the livestock industry across the United States and internationally.
Beyond her technical innovations, Grandin is also a prominent advocate for autism awareness and neurodiversity. Through her speaking engagements and published works, she has provided insight into the autistic experience, advocating for the strengths and abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum. Her story is a powerful reminder of the value of seeing the world through different lenses and the positive changes that can result when we apply unique perspectives to solve real-world problems.
Craving more? Check out the source behind this Brain Snack!
