East of Eden: A Case against Nostalgia

This article argues that the phenomenon of nostalgia (home-sickness or longing for home) is a dangerous and often destructive way of dealing with the past. The first section traces the evolution of nostalgia from a medical disease to a sentimental emotion. After developing a normative definition of nostalgia, the second section proceeds to critique the phenomenon. It also distinguishes nostalgia from some of its unproblematic cousins, such as historical study or lamentation for real loss. The third section draws upon the Parable of the Prodigal Son to develop a positive account of what it means for a Christian to return home again.