In the West, we take it for granted: the ability to declare our best friend 'basically my sister,' or to introduce a close mentor as an 'honorary uncle.' But this redefinition of family ties represents a profound cultural shift that's relatively new in human history.
Recent research published by Schulz et al. reveals that this flexibility in family bonds isn't universal... it is a direct result of specific historical developments in Western society, particularly the Catholic Church's medieval policies against cousin marriage.
In many parts of the Middle East, West Africa, and South Asia, the concept of 'chosen family' would seem unusual... biological ties aren't just important—they're fundamental to social organization, economic life, and personal identity.
The Western privilege of flexible family bonds creates some side effects. Societies with weaker kinship ties tend to be more innovative and economically prosperous... You are free to form partnerships and relationships based on shared interests.
Collection
[
|
...
]