Heritage

Contentseducating towards a better future91Without respect, a peaceful society is impossible. Moreover, respect not only refersto our attitude towards other humans. Heritage destruction, leaving litter, destroyingor damaging other people’s belongings, shouting loudly, insulting others, excessivenoise-making and bullying a classmate are only a few examples of the forms of disrespectfulbehaviour often expressed by children (and adults).Research shows that in the case of disrespectful behaviour the bond between perpetratorand victim is limited, and in some cases non-existent. The perpetrator’s world-viewdoes not include the experiences, emotions or perceptions which connect them totheir victim. Therefore, the culprit is not capable of empathetic feelings and will notbe held back by feelings of guilt, shame or regret.In other words, it is important for children to have experiences of connectedness,which stimulate their ability to empathize and offer them the opportunity for personalgrowth, so that they develop a respectful attitude towards their surroundings.Anyone who feels connected to their environment or heritage will have a more lovingand peaceful approach to life. They will respect and appreciate others and, as a consequence,take care of them.Youth at work on underwater heritage © Tommy Bay/Strandingsmuseum St George,Denmark