Somewhat similarly to an “evolutionary tree” with shared ancestors, abused people were often abused themselves. “Breaking the chain” of trauma could also be considered a “mutation”, in that its another form of nature “rolling the dice” to see what pans out. Conversely, people with happy lives often create happy children, perpetuating the behavior.
When I refer to “generational trauma” I’m referring to the psychological and emotional affects of trauma that are passed down. For example, say a war veteran returns home but doesn’t get any treatment for their PTSD. They start a family and have kids, but physically abuse them. That child may then grow up to physically abuse their own children, and the cycle continues.
Apparently my friend’s perception, which to him seemed like cosmic truth, was that ALL hate is from generational trauma. Can’t say I agree - people can certainly develop new prejudices based on their own individual experience. But sometimes an idea that clarifies your own issues can feel like discovering cosmic truth.