Something that managed to evolve in a medieval monastery, during an era of warring kingdoms, must've been significant, and we dismiss our roots at our own peril.
Of course, we should actively seek to simplify, clarify, and forget the unnecessary. But Chesterton's fence, etc.
> Something that managed to evolve in a medieval monastery, during an era of warring kingdoms, must've been significant, and we dismiss our roots at our own peril.
Nope, in such 'warring kingdoms' environments science and education were not able to prosper. The middle to latter parts of the middle ages in Europe were rather stable times to allow the development of both of those.
Even with that, its still a medieval institution. It must progress and adapt to the 21st century.
Of course, we should actively seek to simplify, clarify, and forget the unnecessary. But Chesterton's fence, etc.