Old Age Constructions and Deconstructions [Paperback]

Focuses on the reality of the experience of old age.Focusing on the reality of the experience of old age from a social constructivist perspective, as opposed to the stereotyped image, this text argues that it is affected by deeply ingrained social attitudes whereby the old are separated from society and associated with the fear of death.Focusing on the reality of the experience of old age from a social constructivist perspective, as opposed to the stereotyped image, this text argues that it is affected by deeply ingrained social attitudes whereby the old are separated from society and associated with the fear of death.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.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. Hazan's critical analysis is provocative...it raises issues for social science theoriists and researchers studying old age to ponder. Anne Foner, American Journal of Sociology The alternative model that Hazan proposes has aspects that could make importantl“%