Professor Phillip
Tobias
Professor Emeritus, Paleoanthropologist,
Anti-Apartheid Activist
A world famous academic with an
illustrious career, Professor Tobias
overcame the death of his younger
sister, his parent’s divorce and
the subsequent bankruptcy of his father to
become South Africa’s most loved
scientist.
As an outspoken critic of
apartheid, he fought relentlessly to
keep universities open to all races and
used his academic studies to eloquently
argue that there is no scientific basis
for racial classification. He has also been
credited with playing an instrumental
role in persuading the world to accept
and celebrate Africa as the cradle of
humanity.
A living emblem of embracing values and
a sense of justice over career
expediency, he discusses the various
events that have shaped
his own personal views, in particular
those on the role of ethics and
spirituality in modern science. He also
talks about his deep love of reading
books and of how sharing a cup of tea
with friends and colleagues helps to
forge human relationships.
Prof Tobias’
infectious enthusiasm and extraordinary
personality provide a lively and thought
provoking spark to the series.
“My love for people has motivated all
that I have done”. |
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