The Getting and Losing Wisdom

Abstract

SUMMARY The role of aging and culture in the attainment of wisdom is examined m this chapter. The concept of wisdom m industrialised societies is briefly explored. It is argued that both biology and culture can be positive or negative factors m the capacity of a person to be “wise.” It is concluded that, for many, the negative impact of biological factors of aging are overwhelming, but, for a few, aging enriches their insight.