Meaning: The quote by Donald Johanson sheds light on his upbringing in a non-religious environment and the impact it had on his perspective. In this quote, he acknowledges that he was aware of religion, but explains that he grew up in a very a-religious (or non-religious) family. He mentions that his mother never attended church and had no religious training or background, and that religion was not a part of their social interaction.

Johanson's experience growing up in a non-religious family is reflective of the diversity of beliefs and practices that exist within society. It highlights the fact that individuals are often shaped by their upbringing and the cultural and social environment in which they are raised. In this case, Johanson's family's lack of religious involvement had a significant impact on his own beliefs and values.

Growing up in a non-religious environment can lead to a unique set of perspectives and experiences. For individuals like Johanson, the absence of religious influence in their upbringing may have allowed them to develop a more secular worldview, free from the constraints of traditional religious dogma. It may have also encouraged them to approach life and its complexities from a more empirical and scientific standpoint.

Johanson's upbringing may have influenced his career as a scientist, particularly in the field of paleoanthropology. His work in discovering the famous fossilized skeleton known as "Lucy" in Ethiopia in 1974 has contributed significantly to our understanding of human evolution. His scientific pursuits and discoveries may have been shaped, in part, by his upbringing in a non-religious family, where critical thinking and empirical evidence were likely valued.

It is important to recognize that individuals come from diverse religious and non-religious backgrounds, and these experiences can profoundly shape their perspectives and outlook on life. Johanson's quote serves as a reminder of the diversity of beliefs and the impact of upbringing on an individual's worldview.

In conclusion, Donald Johanson's quote provides insight into his upbringing in a non-religious family and the impact it had on his perspective. It highlights the diversity of beliefs and experiences within society and underscores the influence of upbringing on an individual's worldview. Johanson's career as a scientist may have been influenced by his non-religious upbringing, shaping his approach to understanding human evolution and the world around him. This quote prompts us to consider the diverse backgrounds that shape individuals' perspectives and the importance of understanding and respecting these differences in our society.