Have we been here before?

Improving outcomes through historical learning.

Many people think there was a golden age in which our culture was much better than today. Or some may think these are worst days in the history of America.

There is truth to both of these statements. On the one hand, this is the time and place in which I live, so they are the worst of times and the best of times. Moreover, nostalgia can improve how we perceive the past, while living in the present moment can increase our experience of pain. One fact, however, is certain: the best of times are never the best for everyone and in everyway. Perspective is important.

History is littered with the worst times and the best times. When we look at a current challenge it is often wise to ask, “Have we been here before?” How can we learn from that experience, either our own or another’s, so as to act with more wisdom and prudence today? I once added Karo syrup instead of oil to a cake recipe when I was a teenager. It was painfull, especially since it was for my mother’s birthday. She laughed. I learned from history!

We rely on historical grounding all the time in learning new tasks. Mom’s or grandma’s recipes are saved for a reason, especially if they include tips they learned along the way. Science provides a historical road map on which we build or correct.

Many cultural issues, such as crime and punishment, mental health, homelessness, and race have historical dos and don’ts from which to learn. Why keep ad libbing a recipe or public policy when we can draw on experience?

1690 media provides stories that take both deep dives and quick glances at the good and bad recipes of the past. We focus on researching past policy and practice and their outcomes so as to make better decisions today. Subcribe and join us on the journey.