Essay on Ageism or Agism - 621 Words

â€Å"Ageism, or agism, is a prejudice or discrimination against an individual or group in society on the basis of ones conception of age. A prejudice is a preconceived mentality, judgement, or opinion that may have no reason nor basis. Discrimination is the expression of prejudice resulting in differential treatment of different groups or individuals in society. This may include unjust behaviors, actions, language(s) and degrading terms, or limitations restricting anothers rights. A person who participates in and supports ageism is called an ageist.† (Tse) How we view the older people of your society in America is unique. The thought of changing our current lives and aging frightens us. We fear getting old, from face-lifts and tummy†¦show more content†¦The Age Discrimination Employment Act (ADEA) was passed over 40 years ago (in 1967) prohibiting the denial of employment, forced retirement, hours of employment, compensation, or termination of individuals due to the persons age, and it was meant to encourage the employment of older individuals based on their abilities and invaluable experience. However, age discrimination and ageism still permeate American society and the workplace.†(Tate) This is a society of isms, racism, sexism, and ageism. It labels, stereotypes, and categorizes people, by shape, size, color, and age. The elderly in their later years should be able to have a peaceable life, treated with dignity and respect. However, pretty much anyone under the age of 50 is a target for an attack of an attitude of ageism at some point. Those who do the disrespecting don’t stop to consider that at some point, they will also be at the receiving end of that attitude.† (Webb) References The Effects of Ageism. (n.d.). Retrieved from Essortment database. http://www.essortment.com/effects-ageism-35572.html Tate, A. (n.d.). Ageism and the Elderly. Retrieved from Yahoo database.Show MoreRelatedAssignment : Ageism In Society910 Words   |  4 Pages004-915-201 Whittaker, D.S. Assignment 1: Ageism Essay Ageism, an idea created by Robert Butler, can be described as degrading behavior or emotions toward older people based on one’s own fears or preconceived ideas (Butler, 1969). This kind of behavior can consist of anything from refusing jobs to someone due to their age and perceived capabilities from not offering ideal care to older people because one believes it is wasteful of resources. The presence of ageism within society leads to a populationRead MoreThe Never Ending Cycle of Prejudice In U.S.A Essay1331 Words   |  6 Pagestreatment is done in a way that is worse than their normal treatment. The word prejudice is defined as a formation of an opinion before actual facts become available. Discrimination can manifest itself in many different ways, such as gender (sexism),age (ageism), social class (classism), political opinion, disability, sexuality, race/ethnicity (racism), language (languagism), religion, nationality or other personal characteristics. Racism and religio us discrimination are the two oldest forms of discrimination