Ageism, Modernity And Postmodernity Flashcards
Modern society and old age
Sociologists argue that old age is seen as negatively because of structured dependency
The elderly depend on young members of society because they excluded from paid work
Identity is pinned on paid work
from a Marxist perspective Phillipson argues that old people are no use to capitalism because they have retired
So the state is unwilling to support them adequately
Age is important in role allocation
Post modern Society and old age
Post-modernists argue that the fixed stages of life seen in modernity have broken down
Children dress in clothes previously deemed for adults and people marry later in life
This gives individuals more choice over their lifestyle no matter what their age is
The old became a market for rejuvenation, goods services this include things like cosmetic surgery, gym memberships and ageing products
This is encouraged by the media which depicts positive opportunities in old age
How does inequality among the old be affected by class?
Middle-class people have better pensions and savings because of hiya salaries
This means they have leisure
Opportunities when they retire
Poor peoples have more health issues and have few opportunities for a youthful self identity
How does inequality among old be affected by gender?
Women have low earnings and career brakes caring for children, so they have low pensions
They are subject to sexism as well as being stereotyped for example old hag
