This Chimpanzee Can Harvest Organs
the creepiest story you've ever heard
Hey there, the weekend is in sight, but we’re not slowing down just yet! Today’s edition is your pre-weekend boost, filled with ideas, stories, and tips to keep you moving forward. Whether you’re hustling hard or planning a chill weekend, we’ve got just what you need to power through.
But before we begin, here’s a small task for you:
📌 Share one thing you accomplished this week, big or small. Shout it from the rooftops (or just reply to this email). You’ve earned it!
Reflecting on achievements, no matter how small, can uplift spirits and create a positive mindset as you head into the weekend. Overall, it cultivates a supportive atmosphere and encourages personal growth!
Now, let’s get started…
Should this chimpanzee be convicted?
In Guinea’s Bossou forest, a chimpanzee named Jeje, famous for her ability to use tools, has done something truly shocking—she killed an eight-month-old baby girl named Yoh Hélène.
This all happened while the baby's mother, Seny Zogba, was working in a cassava field. Jeje reportedly snatched the baby right out of Seny’s arms and even used tools to harm her, which is just devastating.
When the community found out, they were understandably furious. A mob stormed the Bossou Environmental Research Institute, where researchers have spent years studying these incredible animals. They were so upset that they ransacked the place, destroying equipment and even setting some things on fire. Can you imagine the chaos?
Chief researcher Gen Yamakoshi spoke out about the situation, saying that this kind of tragic attack is happening because these chimps "no longer fear humans." That’s pretty alarming, especially since there have been at least six other chimp attacks recorded this year in the reserve.A local ecologist, Alidjiou Sylla, offered some insight, saying that food shortages might be pushing the chimps out of their protected area and into human territory. It’s a tough situation for everyone involved.
Youth leader Moussa Koya chimed in too, suggesting that the chimps might not be acting out of malice; it could just be a learned behavior.
It’s also worth noting that the Bossou forest is home to only seven chimps. They’ve lost members over the years, including their oldest member in 2022. These chimps are known for their remarkable skills, like using stone hammers to crack open nuts, which is quite impressive! But this tragic incident is a stark reminder of the complex relationship between humans and wildlife and how fragile that balance can be.
BTW, we found the ‘magic words’ that will make people do what you ask for
Have you ever noticed how a few carefully chosen words can make a huge difference in how people respond to requests?
Jonah Berger, a marketing professor at the Wharton School and the author of Magic Words: What to Say To Get Your Way, dives deep into this fascinating concept. He reveals that certain words have the power to influence and inspire, making people up to 30% more likely to do what you ask!
Take, for instance, a study from Stanford University back in the 1960s. Researchers asked a group of preschool kids to help clean up a messy classroom filled with crayons, toys, and books.
The kids who were simply asked, “Can you help clean?” were much less likely to pitch in compared to those who were asked, “Would you mind being a helper and cleaning up the classroom?”
Now, let’s look at another example.
A 50-year-old study from Harvard had researchers sitting in a library, waiting for someone to use the photocopy machine. They tried three different approaches to ask for a turn: “May I use the Xerox machine?” “May I use the Xerox machine because I have to make copies?” and “May I use the Xerox machine because I’m in a rush?” Guess which one worked best? That’s right—the last one!
Using “because” made people 50% more likely to let the researcher use the machine. It’s no wonder that brands like L’Oreal Paris have tapped into this magic with their slogan “Because you’re worth it.”
So, why do these little magic words work so effectively? Berger explains that it’s all about the difference between actions and identities. When we frame requests in terms of identity, we make them more relatable. For example, people prefer being seen as “hard workers” rather than just being called “hardworking.” This subtle shift makes them feel valued and recognized.
Berger also points out the impact of strong language in speeches. Leaders like Donald Trump and Steve Jobs often use definitive language that commands attention.
On the flip side, speakers who rely on filler words like “um” and “uh” can come off as unclear and uncertain about their message.
Before you go, I wanted to know about your weekend plans!
So, that’s it for today. Let’s meet again tomorrow 👋 Till then, live and laugh!
