Birth, progress, and appropriation

aging and generationality from the perspective of historical anthropology

Jörg Zirfas

pp. 205-217

in: Mark Schweda, Michael Coors, Claudia Bozzaro (eds), Aging and human nature, Berlin, Springer, 2020

Abstract

This chapter focuses on aging and generationality from the perspective of historical anthropology. Three anthropological aspects are essential in this context: the importance of origin and birth, the question of time and progress, and the aspects of mediation and appropriation. In conclusion, the chapter offers reflections on recent social developments in the context of generations and on the current importance of aging and old age.