The myth of the golden isle: old age in pre-industrial societies

Selected Papers Volume of the 8th International Congress of Cross-Cultural Psychology • Vol/Iss. N/A • Swets & Zeitlinger • Lisse, The Netherlands • Published In • Pages: 403-410 •
By Glascock, Anthony P.

Abstract

This study discusses the distribution of the treatment of the aged across a sample of pre-industrial societies. Data illustrate that the elderly were treated in a non-supportive or death-hastening manner in the majority of societies, dispelling the notion that a golden age/isle existed in pre-industrial societies in which the elderly were revered and supported. Results also suggest a relationship between age and treatment of the elderly and climate, social, and subsistence variables and the treatment of the aged.
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