Thread: Wisdom?

I think it would be a good idea if every generation or so, all the really old (but still competent) people got together and wrote down a list of simple things to do or not do in life. Like the things they've learned after having a lot of time to make the same mistakes over and over again. Or just comment on how they think we're doing with the world. Basically, I think people with a longer time perspective on life can see things differently and could give great advice.

They kind of do that in Japan among other cultures. Or at least, some people I've talked to get that impression. It's not so organized, allegedly. But apparently the elderly have reached a status and it is a great honor to get suggestions from an elderly person based on his/her experiences.

I see your point. That would be good if more cultures took a page from that book.

In 60 years or so, perhaps I'll start something up that collects a database of all the advice old people have going around that other people may not know

That would be nice.

The problem I have with the advise of the elderly is that it often no longer applies. As we get older our beliefs tend to solidify, which makes it difficult to formulate new ideas about the current state of the world. Old people sometimes look on the current state of affairs from an outdated perspective and so are no longer equiped to offer advise on a world that is now somewhat foreign to them.

Originally Posted by Xaqaria

The problem I have with the advise of the elderly is that it often no longer applies. As we get older our beliefs tend to solidify, which makes it difficult to formulate new ideas about the current state of the world. Old people sometimes look on the current state of affairs from an outdated perspective and so are no longer equiped to offer advise on a world that is now somewhat foreign to them.

I agree, however there are still many elderly people who continue to update their philosophies and perspectives on life and have the most helpful and insightful advice.

I've found that it is mostly those who were ignorant and/or stubborn in their youth that still harbour the same outdated thoughts about life and refuse to change simply because it is new and unknown, and mankind naturally fears the unknown.

Old people meet up and discuss the future and past mistakes all the time.

It is a better idea to let all the old people gather in a convention center, and gas them all. Right? Either that, or take away their drivers licenses, since not like old people can judge whether they are capable of driving or not, at alone decide about 'wisdom'.

Originally Posted by Neruo

It is a better idea to let all the old people gather in a convention center, and gas them all. Right? Either that, or take away their drivers licenses, since not like old people can judge whether they are capable of driving or not, at alone decide about 'wisdom'.

Hahaha! Sounds a little too much like Hitler's final solution. However, the licence one could be quite helpful.

I think after 80 years or so of living, most people would have learned a thing or two about life in general. While there certainly are old people who are bat shit crazy and can't drive any better than a lizard, I'm talking about the healthy old people. Everyone makes mistakes in their life, and from these mistakes, we learn what not to do next time in a similar situation, and 80 years is a long time to make mistakes.

After existing for only 1/4 of the time as an 80 year old, I have already acquired helpful knowledge about life that definitely would've helped me had I known it sooner. And I continue to benefit from what I have learned. Give me another 60 years, and I think I'll only know more.