How should we define 'ageism'?

摘要

Heath's article should spark a vigorous debate. How should the inevitable process of dying relate to increasingly technological treatment, and where does the ambiguous concept of "ageism" fit in? We need furtherthought about the word "humane" as applied to old age, and a mature discussion of how to avoid (in higher income countries) inexorable progress towards longer, poorer quality of life, coupled with more intervention and less choice for individuals.