Joe Rogan Experience #657 - Corey Knowlton

Auction Mechanics

Corey Knowlton explains the intricate process of auctioning hunts for conservation, highlighting the recent $350,000 auction for a black rhino in Namibia. He emphasizes that such auctions are not new but gained attention due to their occurrence in the United States, where the funds are meticulously tracked to ensure they benefit conservation efforts 1. The auction process is highly vetted, with funds directed to conservation, such as ranger support and habitat maintenance 2. Joe Rogan compares this to controversies like the Red Cross in Haiti, where funds were mismanaged, underscoring the importance of transparency in conservation funding 3.

The money had to be proved to go to the right places to benefit the rhino. The path had to be proven to the US Fish and Wildlife for them to grant the import permit.

--- Corey Knowlton

Knowlton believes in hunting as a tool for conservation, ensuring that the funds raised are used effectively to support wildlife populations.

   

Backlash Dynamics

The public backlash against conservation hunting is intense, with Corey Knowlton facing threats and criticism for his involvement in the rhino auction. He recounts experiences of being targeted by activists and media figures, including Piers Morgan, who questioned the ethics of hunting photos 4. Knowlton discusses the cultural differences in perceptions of normalcy, noting how practices in places like Papua New Guinea differ vastly from Western norms 5. Joe Rogan highlights the modern phenomenon of instant outrage, where social media amplifies emotional reactions without considering the nuanced realities of conservation efforts 6.

We live in a world of instant, instant outrage and instant reaction to that outrage.

--- Joe Rogan

Despite the backlash, Knowlton remains committed to educating the public on the complexities of conservation hunting.

   

Population Management

Population management is a contentious aspect of conservation, where Corey Knowlton argues for the necessity of culling to maintain healthy wildlife populations. He distinguishes between animal rights and animal welfare, emphasizing that ethical hunting can support conservation goals 7. Joe Rogan points out that many conservationists and biologists support culling as a means to prevent overpopulation and resource depletion 8. Knowlton shares his efforts to engage with liberal media to present a balanced view of hunting's role in conservation, despite facing criticism from those who oppose such methods 9.

There's a lot of people, a lot of conservationists, a lot of biologists who are pro culling of certain animals in any population to keep that population healthy.

--- Joe Rogan

The debate continues as Knowlton advocates for informed discussions on the ethical implications of population management in conservation.