Collective memory is essential for a sustainable future
To the editor:
As Lewis Carroll’s White Queen said, it’s “a poor sort of memory that only works backwards.” Our capacity to anticipate the future is rooted in our ability to understand the past, to draw meaning from events which are now part of history.
Climate science would be gravely hindered if researchers were unable to analyze millions of years’ worth of data embedded in ice cores and rock samples; our response to climate change itself would be equally impeded if we couldn’t hear the stories and wisdom of those who’ve confronted extreme weather and learned its power firsthand. The work of the Waltham Flood Stories project is a perfect example.
At a time when both science and history are under attack from a proudly ignorant demagogue, it’s more important than ever to keep our stories alive, sharing them with one another and adapting their insights and strategies to fit present conditions. In today’s Looking-Glass world, collective memory is essential to the work of fostering a better and more sustainable future.
Warren Senders
Medford, MA
In response to: ‘We’re due for worse disasters’: Brandeis project documents residents’ memories of flooding to prepare for future – Waltham Times
Comments (1)
Leave a comment
When commenting, please keep in mind we are a small non-profit focused on serving our community. Our commenting policy is simple:
- Common sense civility: we’re all neighbors, but we can disagree.
- Full name required: no anonymous comments.
- Assume the best of your neighbors.
The author rightly highlights how local, collaborative efforts like the Waltham Flood Stories project can overcome partisan divides. In today’s upside-down political climate, prioritizing shared community history over politics strengthens local unity. This is a good way for us to address critical issues like climate impacts and foster a more secure future for all.