Whisperer in London, Middlesex

The Motive of Posterity in Human Affection and Wealth

The author argues that love of posterity is really self love extended beyond death. People pursue legacies and estates to prestige themselves, often at the expense of present well being, questioning whether heirs would restore, part with, or value their forebears’ wealth. He notes motives of credit and vanity exceed paternal affection.