Why is it important to understand a pattern of behavior in its historical context as well as across societies?

Question

Why is it important to understand a pattern of behavior in its historical context as well as across societies?

Answer 1

I'll start off with a few cliches here...as bad as they may be.

History typically repeats itself.  

You can't know where you're going until you know where you've been.

Now...an actual answer, We must view behaviors/actions in their cultural and historical context in order to move toward better cross-cultural understanding and knowledge about where our society has been as well as where it is heading.