Anthropological Perspectives on Aging

This paper utilizes the holistic and synthetic approach of anthropology to present certain issues and problems regarding age. Such an approach integrates the processes of adaptation and evolution among the biological, sociocultural, environmental, and demographic dimensions over time. Within this co...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science 1978-07, Vol.438 (1), p.1-12
Main Author: Katz, Solomon H.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Age
Aging (see also Aged, Geriatric)
Anthropology/Anthropological
Biological evolution
Demography
Demography/Demographic/ Demographical
Evolution
Humans
Longevity
Older adults
Physical anthropology
Population growth
Sex chromosomes
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Summary:This paper utilizes the holistic and synthetic approach of anthropology to present certain issues and problems regarding age. Such an approach integrates the processes of adaptation and evolution among the biological, sociocultural, environmental, and demographic dimensions over time. Within this context the human life cycle, and particularly postreproductive longevity, is considered as an evolutionary phenomenon. The paper also examines worldwide and national demographic trends in aging and the effects of these trends on cross-cultural adaptations to the aged. It concludes by emphasizing the magnitude of the demographic shifts through which we are living and by drawing attention to the potential role of anthropology in the attendant readjustments of society to this change.
ISSN:0002-7162
1552-3349
DOI:10.1177/000271627843800102