Hereditary succession is a phrase that refers to the passing of power or property from one generation to the next within a family. The spelling of this phrase in IPA phonetic transcription is həˈrɛdɪtəri səkˈsɛʃən, with stress on the second syllable of "hereditary" and the first syllable of "succession." The first syllable of "hereditary" is pronounced with an unstressed schwa sound, while the final syllable of "succession" is pronounced with a stressed "shun" sound. This phrase is commonly used in discussions of monarchy, aristocracy, and other forms of inherited power.
Hereditary succession refers to the method or system of passing down power, authority, or a position from one generation to the next within a family or lineage. It is a form of succession that is based on the doctrine of inheritance, where individuals inherit their rights or responsibilities based on their family ties.
In hereditary succession, the transfer of power or position is typically determined by an established set of rules, customs, or laws that dictate who may inherit and under what circumstances. These rules often include factors such as primogeniture (the eldest child inheriting), male preference (men having priority over women), or lineal descent (passing down through direct bloodline).
This type of succession has historically been prevalent in monarchies, aristocracies, feudal societies, and similar political and social systems. It is rooted in the belief that certain qualities or traits, whether intellectual, physical, or moral, are passed down through generations, making individuals from the same family suitable and deserving of holding power or responsibility.
However, hereditary succession has also been subject to criticism and debate, particularly in relation to notions of meritocracy, fairness, and equal opportunities. Critics argue that it may hand power to individuals who are not necessarily qualified or capable, solely based on their birth, while potentially excluding more competent individuals.
In summary, hereditary succession is the practice of transferring power, authority, or a position from one generation to the next within a family or lineage, based on established rules or customs regarding inheritance and family ties.
The word "hereditary" is derived from the Latin word "hereditarius", which means "heir" or "inheritor". It comes from "hereditas", meaning "inheritance" or "legacy", which itself comes from "heres", meaning "heir" or "inheritor".
The word "succession" comes from the Latin word "successio", meaning "a following after" or "a sequence". It is derived from the verb "succedere", which means "to come after" or "to go under". The word "successio" was later adapted into Old French as "succession" before entering the English language.
When combined, "hereditary succession" refers to the passing down of a position, title, or property from one generation to another through inheritance or lineage.