Intergenerational Relations

With the transformation of the elderly into a major political force in American politics, older Americans have used their increasing numbers and political power to capture a growing and disproportionate share of public resources. This book explores their emergence from obscurity to political preeminence and considers the effect of their power on other members of society. It traces the shift in public attitude from the 18th century to the early 20th century, when the elderly population increased and needed an economic safety net. It then focuses on the elderly's growing power in the late 20th century and examines how they are receiving an expanding share of the budget for such programs as Social Security and Medicare at the expense of such groups as children in poverty.

Covering an increasingly important topic in sociology, this book is a thorough and lively introduction to the role and importance of age in contemporary British society. The core of the book presents the latest information on each of the major age divisions, and compares the role of age in Britain today with different cultures and periods in history, as well as assessing the importance and influence of biology, biography, gender, ethnicity, and class. This work will be an invaluable introduction and reference for students of sociology, human geography, and social policy.

This very first comprehensive book-length reference guide dealing with older adult education is not only current on theoretical developments but also on the latest programs, policies, and research. It is unique in placing the subject of lifelong learning into historical perspectives, discussing ways in which programs have been transformed over the last 15 to 20 years, and in considering the impact of institutional policies on older adult education. Computer and electronic learning programs, research and programs dealing with intergenerational education, and future prospects in the field are surveyed also. Appendixes describe important organizations, programs, sources of information, state tuition waiver policies, and other guidelines and data. Relevant statistics, research findings, numerous tables, original documents, and anecdotes relating experiences of older learners further enrich this state-of-the-discipline reference guide for academic, professional, and public libraries and broad audiences of teachers, students, professionals, and general readers concerned with education and older adults.