3 ms·
The more genetically similar we are, the more socially valuable the relative differences become.
by hypertele-Xii 4y ago
The more genetically similar we are, the more socially valuable the relative differences become.
- mullingitover 4y agoIt depends on the difference, because genetic differences aren't always beneficial. The Hapsburg Dynasty's Charles II famously had an inherited birth defect due to the heavy inbreeding[1] among the ruling class, for example. It was of no value to anyone. The true reason for valuing lineages is more about social rank/class protectionism. [1] https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/distinctive-habsburg-jaw-was-likely-result-royal-familys-inbreeding-180973688/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/distinctive-habsbu...
- internet_user 4y agoThe value of that intermarriage was ability to maintain an empire of significant power and influence, as well balance relationships with nearby royals, who were all cousins. "no value" here is probably in tens, maybe hundreds of trillions of dollars in the present time PPP basis.