Obituaries serve as a lasting tribute to the lives of our loved ones, preserving the values and memories that families hold dear. A recent study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences analyzed 38 million obituaries of Americans from 1998 to 2024, shedding light on the values that are most often highlighted and how they evolve over time, regions, and major historical events.
Working with psychologists Liane Young and Thomas Mazzuchi, researchers examined the language used in obituaries on Legacy.com, an online platform where families share memories of their departed loved ones. By utilizing text-analysis tools, the study identified the prevalent values in these memorials, such as caring for others, honoring tradition, and seeking personal growth.
Tradition and benevolence emerged as the dominant values in obituaries, appearing in over 70% of the dataset. Words related to achievement and power were less common, reflecting a focus on familial and community ties in remembrance.
The impact of historical events on the language used in obituaries was also evident. The aftermath of the 9/11 attacks saw a shift towards values like security, loyalty, and service, particularly in New York where the impact was most profound. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant changes in the language of obituaries, with a decline in benevolence-related terms and a subsequent rise in tradition-related language.
Gender and age stereotypes were reflected in obituaries as well, with men’s obituaries often emphasizing achievement and power, while women’s obituaries highlighted benevolence and enjoyment of life’s pleasures. Older adults were remembered for valuing tradition, while younger adults were celebrated for their concern for others and independence.
The study underscores the importance of obituaries as a reflection of societal values over time. By examining millions of memorials, researchers gained insights into how individuals are remembered and how values shape the way we live our lives. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of legacy and the enduring impact of cultural values.
Moving forward, future studies could explore variations in obituaries across race, occupation, and regions, as well as investigate the influence of kindness in daily life based on its prevalence in memorials. Understanding what endures in memory can provide valuable insights into what people value most and how those values guide their actions and choices.
This article, originally published on The Conversation, offers a compelling look at the significance of obituaries in defining a life well-lived and the evolving values that shape our legacies.
