This is one of the fundamental question that shaped the past, present and future of Human beings. Let's delve into it.

Human beings are inherently social creatures, but their social existence is deeply intertwined with the institution of family. Within this unit, individuals often prioritize the well-being of their partners and children above others. This emotional bond forms the foundation of many human decisions, both personal and societal.

As we know, historically, early human societies were built on principles of coexistence and communal sharing. Resources were distributed collectively, and survival depended on mutual cooperation. However, the advent of the Agricultural Revolution, around 10,000 years ago, marked a dramatic shift. Humans began settling in one place, cultivating land, and accumulating resources. With land and produce now tied to individual effort and ownership, the question of inheritance emerged: who would rightfully receive the fruits of one’s labor? To address this, the tradition of marriage gained prominence which started not as a romantic or spiritual union, but as a social contract to establish lineage. It allowed individuals to identify their biological offspring and ensure that wealth and property were passed down to their own children. This seemingly practical solution laid the groundwork for increasingly complex social structures.

As societies evolved, so did the intensity of competition. The desire to secure a better future for one’s children led many to adopt aggressive means viz. plunder, deceit, and even violence. Most of the time individuals did not hesitate to harm others to protect or elevate their own. The modern world, with its relentless pace, widespread corruption, and systemic exploitation, often reflects this underlying drive.

From bribery and land grabs to environmental degradation and gender-based violence, many societal evils can be traced back to the instinct to maximize benefits for one’s heirs. The desire to preserve and expand family wealth has, in many cases, override ethical considerations and communal responsibility.

Today, powerful dynastic families wield influence over global systems. They control economics, politics, media, and more tools and resources. Their control is often maintained through generational monopolies, where wealth and authority are passed down with minimal disruption. This perpetuates inequality and limits opportunities for others.

If society were to adopt a principle where children did not automatically inherit their parents’ wealth, it could potentially dismantle many of these entrenched hierarchies. Such a shift might discourage excessive accumulation and reduce the incentive for unethical behavior. People might focus more on collective well-being rather than hoarding resources, leading to a more equitable and less conflict-ridden world. Will humans do it?