About the lecture

In this lecture, we think about some stereotypes and realities about older people and their place in society, focusing in particular on: (i) the stereotype that they enjoy prosperous lives at the expense of more deprived younger generations; (ii) the stereotype that they are a burden on younger taxpayers and do not contribute to the economy; (iii) challenging the first by noting that many older people are relatively poor, with around 16% living in poverty, and that the wealthier amongst them often offer financial assistance to younger relatives; (iv) challenging the second stereotype by considering the large number of older people who contribute paid employment and voluntary work.

About the lecturer

Professor Pat Thane is Visiting Professor in History at Birkbeck, University of London. She researches twentieth century British history, with a focus on social policy. Her recent publications include Divided Kingdom: A History of Britain, 1900 to the Present (2018), Sinners? Scroungers? Saints? Unmarried Motherhood in Twentieth Century England (2012) (with Tanya Evans) and Happy Families? History and Family Policy (2011).