The Philosophical Side of Genealogy
Genealogy is not a new activity and it is not isolated to any one culture. It bridges across all cultures and all eras. At its root, genealogy satisfies basic human curiosity. These needs can be summed up in three fundamental questions:
• The Past – Where do I come from?
• The Present – Why am I here?
• The Future – What is going to happen to me?
Interestingly enough, the three fundamental questions that underpin genealogy are also the three questions that form the basis of all the major religions of the world.
People have a basic desire to know where they came from and how they got to where they are today. Thus, in some ways there is a philosophical connection between genealogy and religion.
Another way to look at the issue is to take a family tree and flip it on its head. In other words, invert the timeline of a family tree and look at it from the perspective of one of your ancestors. From their point of view, you would represent the future. Such a simple exercise produces a profound truth: you are the final end product of the many generations that came before you.
Chances are many of your ancestors had to overcome considerable personal hardship in their lives. The knowledge that your ancestors had great inner strength can be a powerful motivator for anyone trying to understand their place in the world. If it were not for them, you would not be here today reading these words.
Final Thoughts
Genealogy is history on a personal scale. It helps satisfy a deep need to understand how we fit into the broader world around us. Genealogy is more than just a collection of single family threads passing through time. It truly is a journey of many lifetimes woven together from the past, the present and (from our perspective) the future.
Genealogy is a popular pastime. It is also important because it lies at the heart of the human condition. Now that we have discussed why genealogy is important, are you ready to find out who you really are?
Amazon.ca
Amazon.co.uk
Amazon.de
Next time you want to buy something on Amazon, simply click on the appropriate link and it will take you to the main Amazon home page. We earn a small referral commission at no cost to you if you (or a friend/family member) buy something. It takes just 3 seconds of your time. Thank you for your consideration.
Related Articles
Getting Started Researching Your Family History
Ten Effective Strategies for Building a Family Tree
