Shifts in Values Reflected in American Obituaries

A recent study published in the journal *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences* analyzed 38 million obituaries of Americans from 1998 to 2024, revealing significant insights into the values families emphasize when commemorating their loved ones. Conducted by psychologists Liane Young and Thomas Mazzuchi, the research utilized text-analysis tools on obituaries posted on Legacy.com, highlighting how values shift across generations, regions, and historical events.

The Independent

The analysis identified that the values of "tradition" and "benevolence" were most frequently highlighted in obituaries, appearing in over 70% of the analyzed texts. Words associated with "tradition," such as religious participation and enduring customs, dominated the memorial language. In contrast, terms related to "achievement" and "power" were less prevalent. Notably, the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks prompted a shift in language, with families increasingly using terms related to "benevolence" and "tradition," while language around "security" diminished.

The Independent

The COVID-19 pandemic marked a significant turning point in the language used in obituaries. Starting in March 2020, there was a sharp decline in benevolence-related language, including terms like "love" and "family." Initially, tradition-related language also fell but later rose above baseline levels during the pandemic's later stages. This indicates that collective disruptions can profoundly affect the moral vocabulary families use to honor their loved ones, altering perceptions of what constitutes a well-lived life.

The Independent

The study also revealed notable differences in how men and women are remembered in obituaries. Men's obituaries tended to emphasize achievement, conformity, and power, while women's obituaries highlighted benevolence and enjoyment of life. Additionally, older adults were often commemorated for their adherence to tradition, whereas younger adults were remembered for their commitment to the welfare of others and independent thinking. The value profiles in men's obituaries showed more variation across age compared to women's, which remained relatively consistent.

The Independent

This research underscores the importance of obituaries as a reflection of societal values at different historical moments. They serve as a window into what communities prioritize and how these priorities evolve. The findings suggest that understanding the values that endure in memory can influence how individuals choose to live their lives, potentially inspiring greater kindness and care in daily interactions.

The Independent

The study opens avenues for further exploration, including examining differences in memorialization across race, occupation, and geographic regions. Researchers may also investigate historical obituary archives to trace cultural values over time, enriching the understanding of legacy and memory in society.

The Independent

• “Why it matters The most visited parts of print newspapers and online memorial sites, obituaries offer a window into what societies value at different points in time.” — Stylianos Syropoulos, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Arizona State University

The Independent

• “Understanding what endures in memory helps clarify what people consider meaningful; those values shape how they choose to live.” — David Markowitz, Associate Professor of Communication, Michigan State University

The Independent