Die hohe Kunst des Alterns

Aging is a skill to be learned, says the Tübingen philosopher Otfried Höffe. He comprehensively addresses the economic, medical, legal, and social aspects of the topic and specifically inquires about the prerequisites for aging happily with dignity. The book is directly aimed at those affected and also discusses the themes of dying and death. "What you do not want done to you as a child, do not do to any elder!" With this Golden Rule, Otfried Höffe formulates a social ethics of aging that is both simple and convincing. He opposes the dominance of the economy and the prevalence of negative images of aging. In response to the threat posed by an "aging society," he offers the perspective of "gained years" and provides practical advice such as "the four L's": Walking, Learning, Loving, and Laughing.