This recognition of potential enduring value is represented even more broadly by Gregory Bateson (one of the great minds of the 20th Century). Bateson (1979, p. 157) wrote about the “remnant” in all biological systems. These are elements of any system that is now “out of date” or “not needed” but is preserved because it might once again be relevant and needed as conditions in this system change. As an example, Bateson points to the presence of the femur fin on the whale. This fin (along with the pelvis) on whales is identified as a “vestigial” structure that once played an important role in the adaptation of the whale to its environment but is now much smaller, less noticeable – and of little use. Bateson noted that the femur (as a much larger fin) was needed to help balance the whale in an ocean environment that was much more turbulent than it now is. Bateson proposed that the whale did not abandon the femur, but instead preserved it (in much smaller form) so that it might once again be enlarged and made useful in navigating an aquatic environment that is once again turbulent.
Old organizational and societal remnants (like the whale’s femur) are preserved at a minimal level “in case” the skills or perspectives of this remnant are needed again. Perhaps, wisdom contained in (and preserved in) the old remnant might actually be relevant and of use in our current environment. We hold on to this ancient wisdom “just in case.” Perhaps, Papa Bach’s music was still of great value in the repertoire of European music. It might just be that documents and ideas with which we do not agree might actually be “right” and of great value. We preserve them in case they are fully relevant and of great value.
Conclusions
In preserving Papa Bach’s compositions and his ideas about music that is dedicated to something greater than humankind, his sons do something else of even greater value. They preserve the relationship with someone about whom they care deeply. J. S. Bach’s son can show their continuing love for their father by guarding and preserving what he has produced. Papa Bach can, in turn, continue to love and support his sons even though they have “moved beyond” his work.
It is in this enduring love that we find one of the ingredients of sustained relationships in the midst of major differences of perspective and practices. We will find other important ingredients in the examination offered in the two companion essays regarding two other exemplars of relating midst differences: Abraham Lincoln and Carol Gilligan.
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References
Ariely, Dan (2008) Predictability Irrational. New York: Harper.
Bateson, Gregory (1979) Mind and Nature: A Necessary Unity. New York: Dutton.
Bergquist, William (2003) Creating the Appreciative Organization. Harpswell, Maine: Pacific Sounds Press.
Bergquist, William (2020) “Leadership and Anxiety: Containment and Metabolism I: Anxiety in a VUCA Plus Environment. Library of Professional Psychology. https://library.psychology.edu/leadership-and-anxiety-containment-and-metabolism-i-anxiety-in-a-vuca-plus-environment/
Bergquist, William and Gary Quehl (2020) Caring Deeply: Engaging the Four Roles of Life-Fulfilling Generativity. Library of Professional Coaching (www.libraryofprofessionialcoaching.com).
Erikson, Erik (1963) Childhood and Society. (2nd Ed.) New York: Norton.
Freud, Sigmund (1929/2010) Civilization and It’s Discontents, New York: Norton.
