Aging in classical philosophy
pp. 115-134
in: Geoffrey Scarre (ed), The Palgrave handbook of the philosophy of aging, Berlin, Springer, 2016Abstract
Anton argues that, for the Classical philosophers, the quality and meaning of old age supervenes on the wisdom and moral character of the individual. Any apparent disagreements between these philosophers can be traced back to differences in metaphysical, epistemological, and moral doctrines. For instance, Plato suggests that old age is freedom from youthful earthly desires that only distract humans from truth, knowledge, and the good life. While Aristotle's view is ostensibly negative, his moral psychology allows that the virtuous elder has much to enjoy. Given the self-perpetuating nature of virtue, one who acquires it prior to old age should endure hardships gracefully and enjoy contemplation immensely as an elder. Cicero, Seneca, and Plutarch all agree that the types of activities appropriate to old age are superior to alternative actions.
