The latest issue of New Scientist carries an artivle looking into research about the seeming human desire or need to leave a legacy.
Dictionary Definition:
Legacy – The long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in the past, or of a person’s life.
Oxford Languages (Oxford English Dictionary).
Read the New Scientist article on ‘The desire for legacy’ here
Note – subscription needed for full article or buy the 14 October issue of New Scientist.
Question – What does legacy mean to you and why should it matter? Let me know in the comments below.
The New Scientist article highlights that the desire to leave a good legacy is a seeming ‘glitch’ in our human make up. This seems strange as surely we will not be around when the said legacy comes to fruitition. Thus, there is no direct impact on our ‘lived’ experience. Why should we then care?
However, it is argued that legacy is mre likely an offshoot of a fear of leaving a bad legacy.
This, the article argues, is related to an evolutionary angle where the offspring, or relations, of a bad legacy may find it harder to attract a mate.
Question – What do you think? Is the human desire to leave a ‘legacy’ a result of ego or fear of leaving a bad legacy?
The book ‘Legacy’ by James Kerr is a good read and shows yet another angle where legacy is described as Whakapapa – To be a Good Ancester. I really like the concept of ‘planting trees you will never see’.
In today’s world we all seem very heavily focused on living in the now. We do need to be present and not navel gazing as life passes us by. However, the concept is to think ahead. Consider the possible impact of how we are living now. What impact our lived life may have on those that follow. Planning and laying the ground work for those that are to follow.
Global Warming is a good example of humanity being aware of the potential pitfalls of continuing to ‘polute’ our atmosphere. Yet many do not equate this to a direct threat here and now. Leaving it to future generations to deal with. With proper early planning and implementation the impact and measures taken could be far less severe.
Political lifecycles seem also to follow the here and now fad. At least on a four to five year basis. Very little seems to be planned in a concrete way for future governments, of whatever colour, to build on. The aim is simply to make it to the end of the term and get re-elected.
Question – Are you ‘planting metaphorical trees you will never see’ for future generations or living in fear of what you are leaving in your wake?
Let me know and discuss in the comments below…
Reworking Joseph 