Hereditism

/ˈhɛrɪdɪtɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A system of beliefs or practices based on heredity; the principle that traits and status are determined by inheritance.

Etymology

From 'heredity' plus '-ism' suffix indicating a belief system. Describes ideologies centered on the importance of inherited traits and family lineage.

Kelly Says

Medieval hereditism was the reason primogeniture existed—the absolute belief that whoever was born into a powerful family deserved power, genetics be damned.

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