2007-03-11 10:22:15 · 5 answers · asked by DefenderOfTheMeek22 4 in Social Science ➔ Sociology
Good question, one I've wondered about myself.
I think we are already seeing some of these effects. What we have is a growing number of old folks who are more politically influential, better educated and generally in better straits than any generation of old folks before them. Though many elderly people are not exactly living in the lap of luxury, some are wealthy due to successful investments made in their younger days. (A millionaire is more likely to be an older person than a younger person for this reason.) Some hold high positions in their workplaces, organizations and communities and have no intention on giving up their positions. Some are being kept alive by a regimen of medications and various devices previously unavailable to the general public.
Add to this a widespread tradition of treating elders with respect (and elders expecting it).
The combination of these factors makes the collective voice of older people a stronger one. And since they are still voters, this collective voice will be heeded by political leaders.
What may end up happening is that the younger, working-age population will have to support programs and benefits for the elderly through their tax dollars, and the elderly will come to expect that support as their right.
2007-03-11 11:03:08 · answer #1 · answered by Wonderin' 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you read enough political history you will find that this concept has been debated for at least a century.
It is a political "hot potato" and is dragged up continually in a "populate or perish" attitude by conservative politicians.
It will still be around long after the current generation has gone.
2007-03-12 00:30:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Another implication would be the effect on the health care systems. As our population continues to get older and there are less younger people to help care for those with multiple health complications, who do to age are unable to care for themselves.
2007-03-11 18:20:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
AT WORST A NEW CIVILISATION WILL DAWN AFTER MILLIONS OF YRS.
2007-03-13 07:27:17 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
...you are going to be "over-run" by a-lot of people like me !!!
2007-03-11 19:11:20 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋