Epigenetics & Shared Ancestral Memories

This particular study of genealogy and genetics is called Epigenetics. Broken down, epigenetics simply means "Epi-" on or above in Greek, and "epigenetic" describes factors beyond the genetic code.”

For centuries, several indigenous cultures have believed in the ability to transfer information from one generation to the next, so while the concept of inheriting ancestral memories via our genetics may be radical, it is not new. 

Historians believe in the transmission of memories too, in a sense. Our traditions of passing down knowledge, information, culture, traits, beliefs, and overall social understanding stem from our ability to share stories orally. 

In addition to oral traditions, there is no shortage of historical accounts, diaries, documents, records, or books that line the walls of libraries, genealogical societies, and record offices that provide references to inherited memories, everything from scientific studies to folklore. 

If inheriting memories and experiences from ancestors is possible, then it may also be possible to inherit their trauma. The landscape of the mental health field may change if, or when, such a theory is proven to be true. For example, someone who had a grandparent who experienced severe depression and who may also be struggling with the same things themselves may have new pathways open to them for available treatments. 

However, this line of study is not without skeptics. Psychologists, sociologists, and other scientists believe it is our environments that have the biggest impact on us, not just genetically, but also mentally.

Being exposed to or in certain environments has a great deal of impact on our worldviews, talents, intelligence, and more. Moreover, the quality of our environments is also taken into account by these researchers, which simply explained, reminds me of the adage my grandmother used to say, “You are the company you keep.”

While there is growing interest in this field of study, epigenetics, and inherited memories have their skeptics who argue that the idea may be compelling, but more research is still needed to truly solidify the idea.

It is possible that as more research in this area advances we may eventually uncover more about how the lives of our ancestors impact ours and how ours will impact our children. 

Whether through genetics, oral traditions, or a combination of both, the idea of ancestral memories shows us there is a deep and intricate connection that we share with the past.

For me, the wonderful part about genealogy work is knowing there is always more to explore. The thought that the experiences of our ancestors can live through us could truly shape, or reshape, the way we see ourselves. Moreover, it could also show us that our ties to our past are much stronger than we ever thought possible. 

Follow Dividing Ridge Genelaogy on social media and message our CONTACT page if you would like to have an article featured on History and Heritage.