Ageism

Abstract: 8 pages in length. There are many ideals and attitudes for which North America is considered a precedent setter, not the least of which includes efforts to improve the workplace both personally and professionally, institute stronger health-related laws such as with smoking bans in public establishments, as well as leading the way toward more environmentally-friendly and healthy food through organic farming. However, despite these models of positive progress, North America fails miserably at addressing a fundamental component of any civilized society: respecting and appreciating the elderly. The reality of ageism - defined as "any attitude, action, or institutional structure which subordinates a person or group because of age or any assignment of roles in society purely on the basis of age" (Traxler, 1980, p. 4) - is a prevalent and ongoing social ill throughout North American societies this is manifested in individual conduct, media influence and workforce limitations. Bibliography lists 10 sources.

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Catagory: Race, Politics & Society

Subcatagory: Sociology, Social Work, & Counseling

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