Gifted young athletes are marvels. They can perform feats that astonish us all. Yet as they grow older, their abilities are lessened. Sometimes they themselves recognize the deterioration in reflex and muscle. Sometimes recognition is forced on them by younger athletes able to better do what they once achieved easily.
Metaphors can be treacherous, yet I propose old brains are similar to old athletes. They are no longer as capable, a little slower, less permeated with hormones, fewer neurons, decaying synapses. Sometimes the elderly see it in themselves, but much too often they are blind to the changes unless compared to younger people.
I worry that industrial civilization has become a land of geriatric politics. The old brains rule. They’ve accumulated power, they think they are wise, and most obviously they think they are at least as capable as they once were. Those around them can see they are wrong in that, but _ well _ power.
The main problem is that old brains become pretty rigid. Their logic runs in tight circles, always centering on the same point, unable to assimilate new outlooks. Elders call it experience, wisdom, balance. But a lot of that is truly illusion and rationalization.
I’m an old person, but one of those who actually recognizes that I am less capable. Usually it doesn’t bother me much, but then I do not have to perform much. I wouldn’t want me flying a huge jet or doing brain surgery. Or, for that matter, running the hundred yard dash as I used to do quite well.
HuntingtonHarborThoughts 