“Man is a social animal” – Aristotle, the legendary Greek philosopher.
Humans are social creatures who rely on and thrive in the presence of others.
From an evolutionary perspective, we have always lived in groups, shaping how
we interact with others and the world around us. Whether it is through
friendships, family connections, or community involvement, human beings need
social interaction and support to thrive. In addition to the psychological and
emotional benefits of social connections, being a social animal also has practical
benefits. By working together, we are able to achieve more than we could
individually. As social beings, humans naturally seek out social connections and
relationships with others, and this is especially true when it comes to
intergenerational solidarity. Intergenerational solidarity involves the sense of
connection and shared responsibility between people of different ages, and it is
characterized by mutual respect, support, and cooperation. This type of
solidarity relies on social connections and relationships between people of
different generations, and it can be an important source of learning, enrichment,
and support for all age groups.
In a society, intergenerational solidarity can play a vital role in promoting social
cohesion and addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
By working together and sharing resources, knowledge, and expertise, people
of different ages can create a more fair and just society that benefits all age
groups. Additionally, it can help us to break down stereotypes and prejudices
between generations and promote mutual understanding and respect.
The United Nations (UN) defines intergenerational solidarity as "a relationship
of sharing, mutual respect, and cooperation between generations, based on the
recognition that the needs and interests of younger and older people are
interdependent and that both have a contribution to make to the well-being of
society." This definition highlights the mutual dependence and mutual benefit
that underlies intergenerational solidarity, as well as the importance of
recognizing and valuing the contributions of all age groups to society.
According to the UN, intergenerational solidarity is essential for achieving
sustainable development and addressing the challenges of an aging population.
It involves actions such as sharing resources, knowledge, and expertise between
generations, as well as advocating for policies and initiatives that benefit all age
groups. The UN also emphasizes the role of intergenerational solidarity in
promoting social cohesion and building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Qazi Shuaib Wasi, SRMIST
Intergenerational solidarity involves addressing a range of issues. Some
common examples include:
a. Aging and elder care: As people live longer and healthier lives, the
challenge of supporting and caring for an aging population becomes increasingly
important. This can include issues such as access to healthcare, social support,
and appropriate living arrangements for older people. Addressing these issues
reflects the principles of intergenerational solidarity, including mutual respect
and cooperation, which is essential for building an inclusive, supportive society
for all age groups.
b. Education and mentorship: Sharing knowledge and expertise between
generations is a valuable source of learning and enrichment. By providing
mentorship and guidance to younger people, older individuals help to shape the
next generation and pass on their skills and experiences. At the same time,
younger people can bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to the table,
contributing to the continued growth and development of society.
c. Sustainability and environmental responsibility: Ensuring that the planet
and its resources are preserved for future generations is a shared responsibility
that requires cooperation and collaboration between people of different ages.
Working together to address sustainability and environmental challenges in a
way that reflects the principles of intergenerational solidarity is very necessary
to create a more sustainable and livable future for all age groups.
d. Social justice and inequality: Social justice and inequality among people
of different ages is a significant issue within the realm of intergenerational
solidarity. Ensuring that all age groups have access to opportunities, resources,
and support is essential for our existence and prosperity. For example, older
people may face discrimination and exclusion based on their age and may have
difficulty accessing healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
Younger people may also face challenges, such as lack of access to education,
high levels of unemployment, or discrimination based on their age or other
factors.
Addressing these issues and promoting social justice and equality among people
of different ages requires cooperation and collaboration between different age
groups. It may involve advocating for policies and initiatives that benefit all age
groups, sharing resources and knowledge between generations, and working
together to address the challenges and barriers that different age groups face.
Qazi Shuaib Wasi, SRMIST
There is no one answer to achieving intergenerational solidarity. It is a matter of
finding common ground and working together to build a better future for all.
Some ways to achieve solidarity between generations include communication,
shared experiences, and understanding.
Advocating for policies and initiatives that benefit all age groups, rather than
just one generation, can be an effective way to promote intergenerational
solidarity. This could include policies that support the needs and interests of
older people, such as access to healthcare and social support, or policies that
support the education and employment opportunities of younger people, and
also, incentivize employers to hire and retain older workers; and provide tax
breaks or other benefits for families with children.
Another essential way of tackling this could be, supporting community initiatives
that bring people of different ages. This could include initiatives such as
intergenerational sports teams, community gardens, or volunteer programs that
involve people of different ages working together.
Encouraging dialogue and communication between people of different ages can
help to break down stereotypes and prejudices and foster mutual understanding
and respect. This could involve initiatives such as intergenerational discussion
groups or events that bring people of different ages together to share their
experiences and perspectives. Intergenerational discussion groups, events and
activities, Online platforms, and awareness campaigns are some good strategies
to start with.
Intergenerational Solidarity is among the pillars of the economic sustainable
development of the human race. Thus, it should be promoted enthusiastically
to develop a more healthy, wholesome, and cohesive global society.
Qazi Shuaib Wasi, SRMIST
