With this new age of enlightenment before us, why do we cling to the past?

Some cling to the past for a very simple reason, fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of losing their power, fear of having to share this wondrous world with those they see as inferior. People who cling to ancient superstitions do themselves and others a disservice by not opening their eyes to the possibilities. Also, as I stated, there are those who fear losing their power over others.