In the age of likes, lessons from an 82-year-old amateur palaeontologist

Imagine this: People, young and old, working and retired, spending hours and days over months and years on activities that are, in essence, only for themselves. They collected coins and stamps, tended to gardens, and formed clubs and communities — not online, for validation from strangers, but to share and learn from each other. And, in the rare instance that their hobby led to wider recognition, it was a treat; the clipping of their story in the inside page of a newspaper, something to be treasured. For years, Robert Beattie, now 82, was an amateur palaeontologist who collected fossils across eastern Australia. His findings, it now turns out, were more than run-of-the-mill bones in stone.

Since 1948, when he found his first fossil as a child, the science teacher has been collecting samples and submitting them to the Australian Museum. In early 2020, some of these remains were found to be of ancient midges, over 150 million years old, and the subsequent study published in the journal Gondwana Research places the origins of major branches of insect life in the Southern Hemisphere (earlier, they were believed to originate from the other side of the world).

In the world of palaeontology, Beattie has made a serious mark. And even for the large swathes of people who aren’t that interested in ancient creepy-crawlies, there is something to learn from him. On the value of his discoveries, he said, “Lots of people find all sorts.” Collect the stamps and coins, become part of a Dungeons & Dragons game. Just don’t do it for the likes.

Overall Analysis

This editorial contrasts two eras: one where hobbies were pursued for personal joy and curiosity, and the present digital age where validation through “likes” often drives behaviour. The opening paragraph sets a nostalgic tone, invoking images of people—across generations—devoting time to stamp collecting, gardening, or clubs formed purely out of shared interest. The language is reflective, almost tender, as it highlights a time when attention and recognition were secondary to passion and learning.

The mention of Robert Beattie, an 82-year-old amateur palaeontologist, shifts the piece from nostalgia to a real-life example that embodies this older ethos. The editorial uses his decades-long quiet dedication—collecting fossils since 1948—not for fame but for contribution, curiosity, and personal satisfaction. The discovery that his fossils contained ancient midges becomes symbolic: even humble, unnoticed efforts can carry immense scientific value.

The next section reinforces the magnitude of Beattie’s contribution to science. The writer uses clear, simple language to explain how his samples changed the understanding of insect evolution. This scientific fact is not the main point of the editorial but serves as evidence that passion-led work can have profound impact without any need for social media applause.

The concluding part broadens the editorial’s message: Beattie’s journey is a lesson for everyone in an age driven by online approval. The simple quote, “Lots of people find all sorts”, embodies humility and openness. The author’s language becomes more advisory, urging readers to pursue hobbies—whether stamps, coins, or gaming—not for digital validation but for intrinsic joy, community, and learning. The tone is gentle but firm, reminding readers that meaning often comes from genuine engagement, not metrics.

Important Vocabulary (5)

Validation – acceptance or approval from others.
Run-of-the-mill – ordinary, unremarkable.
Subsequent – following in time; coming after.
Swathes – large groups or sections.
Amateur – someone who engages in an activity for passion, not as a profession.

Conclusion & Tone

The editorial concludes that genuine hobbies and passions should be pursued for fulfilment, curiosity, and personal meaning—not for online recognition. Robert Beattie’s life stands as a quiet counterexample to the social media–driven culture of “likes.”
Tone: Nostalgic, reflective, and gently instructive, with an underlying admiration for authentic passion and lifelong curiosity.