Look forwards to posterity
Britain must be deeply engaged, responsible and consistent as a European power. When in times past we have isolated ourselves from the continent in the name of “empire” or “sovereignty”, we were soon sucked back in. This will inevitably happen again, given our power, trade, democratic values and sheer geography. Putin and the rise of authoritarian nationalism in Poland and Hungry are flashing red lights. As Edmund Burke so wisely wrote, “People will not look forwards to posterity who do not look backwards to their ancestors.” (From the Lord Adonis' letter to the PM Theresa May.)
What is the exact interpretation of Edmund Burke's statement “People will not look forwards to posterity who do not look backwards to their ancestors?
-------------------
How might one look forwards to nonentity, i.e., to non-existing yet generations who do not look backwards to their ancestors?
Top answer
I think you are misinterpreting the statement. A more straight-foward way of wording it is this. " The underlying meaning is this.
- I think you are misinterpreting the statement.
- A more straight-foward way of wording it is this.
- " The underlying meaning is this.
- If you are not interested in your ancestors, you will not expect future generations to be interested in you when you are dead.
Get the Weekly English Kit 📬
New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.
I think you are misinterpreting the statement. A more straight-foward way of wording it is this.
“People who do not look backwards to their ancestors will not look forwards to posterity."
The underlying meaning is this.
If you are not interested in your ancestors, you will not expect future generations to be interested in you when you are dead.
0If you do nothing to consider what kind of legacy you are leaving to your future heirs, don't expect that they will respect and honor you.
0
Related Questions