Mark Abrams

The future of the elderly

Abstract Between now and the 1990s the population of most Western European countries will, on present fertility and mortality rates, show little increase. However, the proportion aged 65 or more will increase; this will be almost entirely due to the 20–25% increase in the numbers aged 75 or more. At the same time there will be pressure to lower the retirement age so as to avoid unemployment among the young. Schemes to encourage early retirement have had little success; without considerable economic growth the conflict between the interests of the elderly and the young will inevitably become more acute.

Mass views of the future: A report from the Netherlands

Abstract In early 1970 a sample survey was carried out in the Netherlands to gauge public opinion concerning contemporary Dutch society and popular views about the likelihood and desirability of certain social changes over the next ten years. It was generally agreed that the Dutch enjoy a high standard of living with sufficient leisure time, but that they are oppressed not only by pollution, but also by having little say in running the country. More leisure is anticipated for the future, but also more pollution and no advances towards social equality nor towards public participation in decision-making.