Old Age: Constructions and Deconstructions

ISBN-13: 9780521447485 / Angielski / Miękka / 1994 / 140 str.

Haim Hazan

Opis

Haim Hazan, a specialist on old age in anthropology, focuses on the reality of the experience of old age as opposed to the stereotyped image. He argues that the construction of this world by outsiders is affected by deeply ingrained social attitudes whereby the old are separated from society and associated with the fear of death. The author views the subject from a social constructionist perspective, drawing on ethnographic accounts to produce a sophisticated and original book that will have a significant impact on a field still dominated by the "social problems" approach.

Recenzje

"The alternative model that Hazan proposes has aspects that could make important contributions to our knowledge about aging, and as Hazan emphasizes, about the ways we do, or do not, acquire knowledge about any elements of human experience that combine biological, cultural, and personal aspects. The two most creative themes introduced in Hazan's alternative model are rooted in his own research: the perception of time by older persons, and their creation of new cultural frameworks in age-homogenous settings. The examples taken from the author's work in these areas are a tempting invitation to further pursuit of a knowledge of age that Hazan proposes should encompass both major facets of the aging experience...." Jennie Keith, American Scientist

Spis treści

Introduction: Towards knowledge of old age; Part I. Representations of Ageing: Languages About Old Age: l. The social trap: the language of separation; 2. The cultural trap: the language of images; 3. The personal trap: the language of self-presentation; 4. The theoretical trap: the missing language; Part II. Presentations of Ageing: Language of the Old: 5. Control: the social boundaries of age; 6. Meaning: the cultural boundaries of life; 7. Another universe: time, space, and self; Conclusion: the nature of knowledge about ageing.