In this case, these individuals purchased a plot i...

2009-07-11T22:26:40.651-04:00

In this case, these individuals purchased a plot in perpetuity and that was essentially stolen from them. Sure, we can argue the metaphysics of the existence or non-existence of souls and their tie to the physical form but this is a pretty clear cut case of theft that also ties into some pretty strong cultural concepts.

Something to keep in mind is that cemeteries are for the living - they're meant to provide not only a place to safely dispose of a body, but to provide rememberance and a space that is set aside for grieving and healing. The modern cemetery also draws from a park-like heritage as expressed in the Rural Cemetery movement and later the Memorial Garden. Basically, they're no more a waste of space than any other land use. They provide a green space, fulfill a cultural need, and can serve as a historical record.

While I understand that people inevitably mourn th...

2009-07-11T00:45:34.529-04:00

While I understand that people inevitably mourn the loss of a friend or family member, the idea of cemeteries is pretty archaic and a waste of real estate. They're dead; they have no interests. What does burying them in a specific spot matter? Even if they had a soul it would not be trapped in a 6X10X3 foot space, right?

Comments on Cemetery Space: More from Alsip, Illinois (update on Scam and Scan...

In this case, these individuals purchased a plot i...

While I understand that people inevitably mourn th...