Early Days Of the Concept Of Ageism

The concept of ageism was brought forth by Robert Butler, almost forty years ago as:

“[a] process of systematic stereotyping or discrimination against people because they are old, just as racism and sexism accomplish with skin colour and gender. Ageism allows the younger generations to see older people as different than themselves; thus they subtly cease to identify with their elders as human beings.”

We are told that he saw on both individual and societal levels, from stereotypes to outright hatred.  The strongest stereotypes including disease, disability and death. In Ontario Canada ageism was defined as:

“a tendency to structure society based on an assumption that everyone is young, thereby failing to respond appropriately to the real needs of older persons.”

Ageism, like racism and sexism is “exclusionary”, and reinforces feelings of inequality and lack of social justice.

. Ageism is predicated on the belief that older adults do not and should not have equal rights and their interests “of course” should be subordinated to other persons and other interests.”

If you are interested in following this up,    Google: Robert Butler Ageism