Let's end ageism | Ashton Applewhite

It's not the passage of time that makes it so hard to get older. It's ageism, a prejudice that pits us against our future selves -- and each other. Ashton Applewhite urges us to dismantle the dread and mobilize against the last socially acceptable prejudice. "Aging is not a problem to be fixed or a disease to be cured," she says. "It is a natural, powerful, lifelong process that unites us all."
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[@camilapenuela9179]

I've read a lot of the comments that have been posted here...Applewhite is just bringing awareness to something that is very, very real, despite all the possible faults in her way of delivering her message. I'm from Colombia. Discrimination against old people is deeply rooted on all of those prejudices we all have against old age, imparted by the same media that has affected how we view gender, race, etc. We see aging as an impairment, a disease that needs to be isolated even, and as part of our culture, this view on age DOES affect how they feel, their productivity and generates more issues in their health. While they do get financial benefits, seats on the bus, etc., it's about how they're "othered". Please don't dismiss her message.

[@martinpospisil3747]

I think its mainly a western culture that is obssesed with youth. Its fear of aging. Westn is spiritually bankrupt. The more we sway away from the natural world the more depressed we will become.

[@arindasleeze]

Who else is doing their assignment?

[@mustardseed9969]

In Eastern culture, people view the elders as precious treasures in their families and societies.

[@carriegrasty8852]

In western society people view young people as stupid people incapable of doing anything productive

[@psychedelicfright85]

@@carriegrasty8852 not true. Though these days, trying to erase the past isn't sitting very well with people, and it shouldn't. No one likes humorless crybabies either. It's ironic. When you're younger, you should be having FUN. College should be FUN.

[@AK-sg1uq]

It is not really true about the eastern culture now… the things are changing

[@Fillemexicaine36]

In Easter culture, do men marry much younger women like they do in Western Culture?

[@catspeakegroove]

I call bs on that one. It’s still ageism

[@tamb7587]

At the age of 57 I had to find a new job because my employer was retiring and selling his business. Working for him was why I had stayed there for 21 years. For the first time ever I couldnt find a job, no one would hire me although I had an excellent record, great references and wasnt wanting more money than people with much less experience. For the first time ever I was afraid. A year and a half later someone finally hired me, that was 4 years ago. I am the oldest person at my job. Unlike my MUCH younger coworkers I show up , and work hard. I dont have to take off work due to bf drama, sick children, sick self or just because I need a " mental health" day. NO , I show up and I work and work hard because if I dont or should I make a mistake or forget something I know the first thought will be that Im getting too old or have dementia. Im 61, I have to work twice as hard and keep a cheerful atitude at all times to keep those thoughts out of the mind of my boss and coworkers...It sucks ... Of course there are older people that cant hang and can’t do the job , but from my experience there are also many young people that cant or just wont do a job either...

[@debbiemoore2747]

All prejudice relies on othering. So true. Thank you 🧡

[@debbieharriman9146]

It sucks depressing and stressful .I was alot happier when I was younger. You lose your youth and beauty,and lose mobility..You become ignored, etched out and invisible . People treat you really mean .Unless you look alot younger,and are a professional .And that's that.

[@ziggylaurie2268]

Especially if you’re a woman

[@AK-sg1uq]

Yes, that’s it. You should either look much younger or be an exceptional pro to be treated like you were treated before you got older. I clearly see it in the society basically everywhere, why do not people see it? If you are an ordinary elder person you will be treated like your existance does not really matter anymore at all. Especially, if you are woman - women are not allowed to age, when they “lose” their “beauty” they are not considered worthy anymore (both by men and by younger women). It has to be changed…

[@333polkadot]

Yes I agree. Not one person in the up with aging thing would turn down an opportunity to be 15 yrs younger. Period.

[@AlexandreLMB]

The comment section only shows how Ageism exists.

[@houseparkcitizen4380]

For example not selling beer to an 18 year old can make you an ageist

[@lunarwind5244]

@Henry Hui I agree. Though there are comments that are insulting.

[@phillipandrewbarbb]

Ageism is not just a buzz word. It is a real issue millions of 35-55 are facing. Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpzJh6Z8idRroKM

[@CircumCrippledTV]

@Henry Hui Totally agreed!

[@EliasJWhite]

There is a lot of ageism in the youtube comments section. Just look at the comments directed actors who dare to get older. You'd think those actors had done something to personally offend them.

[@alwaysuseless]

This talk was well-organized, clearly articulated with telling examples, and backed by data from reputable sources. No doubt, the topic and the clear, energetic delivery will make some people uncomfortable. And, I suppose it's human nature to be more motivated to comment on a talk one dislikes or that strikes a nerve. Ironically, the negative comments, with their personal attacks, lack of logic, and knee-jerk bias, actually support the presentation by demonstrating just how prevalent and serious the problem of ageism is.

[@lunarwind5244]

Or maybe a lot of people are trying to tell the truth (that they believe). Maybe they're wrong, maybe they're right. However, not all of them are ageist. Not all of them are simply "uncomfortable." Of course, the attacks aren't great. I don't support rude behavior either. However, a lot of the "negative comments" might make sense. Just because someone disagrees with her (or you) doesn't mean they are ageist. They can be reasonable too. Stop saying that all of them have "knee-jerk bias," or how they "support the presentation," just because they disagree. I find it really rude that you condescend to people this way.

[@borislugosi54]

I found her examples told from an angle to seem relatable but not necessarily accurate and mentioning studies and research but not specifically which studies or context of research is not clear data. Who's the "reputable source". There are issues related to ageism, but this speech is not that in depth or provocative.

[@Danijones4571]

Personally as a young women I've experienced many times older women treating me well, like a dummy, treating me like I'm a child and they're more mature and experienced etc and it drives me mad! (especially in the workplace). Maturity isn't dependent on age, but life experience, and that I've got plenty. Is this considered ageist behavior?

[@MartialAmos]

No, it's just a silly thing to do. Making an -ism that encompasses whole society out of individual behaviour (though it is common, but it is not a problem) indicates a logical fallacy. You don't extrapolate one case on everybody. You live in society, therefore nobody owns you anything in the first place. People will not accept your subjective point of view at all cases, but this speaker implies that their feelings are more important than what people want to say. This is dumb narrative, noone cares about what you think and you should no care either. It's this simple. Clouds are not cotton candy, and rivers are not milk. You are not child anymore, but a part of human community that can be harsh, disrespectful and rude. The world this woman is talking about is an impossible utopia.

[@karma5390]

Rio Hemmings by her definition yes you're being patronised because of your age and that would constitute as ageism.

[@alwaysuseless]

Yes, as the speaker said, ageism cuts both ways.

[@AshtonApplewhiteVideos]

yes!

[@alastairp]

Yes that is ageist

[@klarahogberg6828]

Ageism isn't only about treating "old" People different. Youths ideas and opinions often get ridiculed based on their age, it simply isn't a single "age-group" problem.

[@toafafaamoana5044]

all this 18+ and 21+ is agism but its hardwired into people and they just come out with dumb things

[@frogluvrfr]

Exactly.

[@aprilstone28]

she is saying that as well!

[@mr.lijahkthe1st112]

1:40

[@logangomez4475]

@@mr.lijahkthe1st112 I went back and heard it.

[@melissac.5948]

Wow...judging by these comments, Ms. Applewhite has really struck a nerve. As an old person, I really wish more of you would have listened to the heart of what she is saying, even if you disagree with the way she says it. Just you wait...you'll see.

[@louisciamillo8690]

I dont think the problem lies in lack of perspective, I just think that she shouldnt take this "issue" (ill provide my reason for putting that in quotes in a moment), and cloak it in lies about capitalism, sexism, racism, etc. And thats exactly what it is. She lies about things such as the effects of age on the human body and reinforces it with popular SJW beliefs. The fact is, aging DOES have negative effects on the human body. Its not a social construct, and its not just a market that these so called big pharmaceutical companies have pushed on people. It's science. As people age, the telomeres that act as a cap for the end of a chromosome begin to shorten with each replication as a person ages, causing each new cell to be more damaged than the last. Now Im not going to try and tell you that the nullment of her argument makes it ok to dehumanize old people, but frankly, I dont think that happens too much anyway. If a person is going to dehumanize someone, theyre going to do it to just about anyone, black, white, old, young, republican, democrat, you name it. "Ageism", racism, sexism, all just convenient mediums of dehumanization. So really, this woman is not preaching to the young white males of the world as she may think, but rather, she is preaching to the irrational people of the world (no those are not interchangeable) and those people arent going to change. And finally, this woman thinks that she speaks on behalf of ALL elderly people, when in fact, I know that my own grandparents, on either side, would be appalled to be victimized like this. They are all independent DESPITE what old age has done to their bodies. my grandfather for example, is 72 years old and still works 4-6 12 hour days per week. I dont think I could have more respect for that. I hope you read the whole thing with an open mind, and if you did, I also have some respect for you.

[@machinegunhunt8407]

.....Aren't you proving her point?

[@lunarwind5244]

Just you wait... you'll see. And how would you know? You're not them.

[@phillipandrewbarbb]

Ageism is not just a buzz word. It is a real issue millions of 35-55 are facing. Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpzJh6Z8idRroKM

[@Canadakonnect]

Older women are very hateful and bitter about life. They will sabotage younger women or have to turn everything in to an issue. Women are amazing in their purest form until they get corrupted by these older women and their negativity. There is a very good reason men marry younger women. It's not just looks alone but because of their energy and their happy supportive characteristics.

[@sadpotato9514]

I left a toxic work environment, but now I wish I hadn't. I'm 40 and I've been struggling to get a new job. I've gotten a few interviews, but no offers. I don't know if it's age discrimination since age doesn't come up, but I've never had this much trouble getting a job in my 20s and 30s.

[@delavalmilker]

It's definitely age discrimination. There have been numerous studies done, where they send out resumes to companies advertising help wanted. In one set of resumes, they don't mention the applicants age. In the second, identical set--they mention the applicant's (older) age. They found a huge difference between the two different sets of resumes, as far as call-backs for interviews. You can guess which set of resumes got the most call-backs.

[@charliecastillo2011]

Ms. Applewhite reminds me of a sociology professor I had last semester. Great TED Talk!

[@I.am.Chavez]

Ageism is a real thing anybody 25 and over knows what I mean it only adds more depression to people's lives

[@fototoestelletje]

GC_isme yeah im depressed af bcuz of ageism and im only 12

[@KimmiiaS]

So true. I am 26 and I already suffer from ageism.

[@quit2588]

@@fototoestelletje I’m sorry :( side note, I like ur pfp ;)

[@fototoestelletje]

@@quit2588 Oh, thanks. I also like your pfp, Kakegurui is a great anime but I like Yumeko the most :D By the way things get worse…almost everyday I cry because of ageism and I'm not even joking lol. I'm so overwhelmed I wish ageism just disappeared haha

[@fototoestelletje]

@TheFrostyPhoenix Same but ageism gets progressively worse as you get older so enjoy your time. Don't make too much stress about ageism

[@ProfessorSyndicateFranklai]

Frankly, now that we're working when we're older and retiring older, it becomes a more pressing issue.

[@ErutaniaRose]

Wisdom is not dependant on age. While those who are older have more time to collect and grow it, they do not always use that time wisely. Just because you are older, doesn't mean you are wiser, smarter, or kinder. It just means you have had more time to work on those things. The same goes for young people. They've just had less time given to them to do so. But, it's not about how much time you have or don't have, it's about how you use it.

[@dinosaurus598]

It depends on experience.

[@melissagreen_]

The frustrating thing is though that we become better versions of ourselves as we age and most people iron out their issues and at a time you are at you best internally, instead of being able to take advantage of your experience you are shut out and blocked from doing so. It's a mad world and everyone will eventually experience it.

[@averagegirl3873]

Some of you clearly didn't listen... It was a great talk. Really effective. I loved it!

[@Teddybeardb85]

I loved hte talk, and it comes down to also how you were raised and the normality of how older people are seen in western societies. Especially in cultures we do understand and do not understand. Like Take Captain Turner for instance he was probably raised in a male is the king type of home, no matter the age and has been bought up to believe that women (especially elder women) are not equal to men. It is a sad situation because he has been brainwashed by his family hogwards, and Fox News.

[@Chribit]

if you acctually think about what she is saying and listen properly, it is a pretty good and relevant talk.

[@larap.1850]

It always amazes me how the upper age for age surveys are often 65.

[@delavalmilker]

Incredibly good talk! As an active 68 year old, I have personally experienced blatant and open age discrimination in employment. As this presenter says: "Ageism is the last acceptable prejudice". And it's especially prevalent in the labor market.

[@karagoldsmith7322]

Great talk 👍🏻 I found it very interesting and engaging to watch and the speaker was clearly very passionate and had done her research

[@wtDrake]

I'm turning 30 in a few weeks and I've never been more depressed. I think it's because I graduated college late and started my career late, no relationship right now. I feel like I wasted my 20s. Older folks still tell me 30s are young and I definitely don't feel 30, but it's the first time younger adults will see me as "old" . Sorry this sounds so trivial lol

[@KimmiiaS]

I can relate. I will turn 30 in few years too. I am 26. And I am already viewed as " old " but hey all of those who are in their 20s will join the 30s and 40s way sooner than they can imagine. Anyone who is 20-23 at the moment will be 30-33 in 10 years. And you will be 40. So we will all be on the same boat 😁

[@pinkperfumefairy9205]

Pfp checks out

[@wtDrake]

@@pinkperfumefairy9205 so does yours with the Roblox upload. Stay in school kiddo

[@Coffeehan]

People who think you are old in your 30s are younger people, pay them no mind, they don't know what they're talking about. Pretty soon they will realize that if they get lucky to reach their 30s., that is. So just do you.

[@miguelrosado6348]

I think you are victim of our times. Social media puts a lot of pressure on youngsters to be achievers in their 20's which is ridiculous. It probably has to do with the fact that we have so many tech people, actors, musicians, designers and athletes, being successful in their early 20's and making everyone belief that is the norm. Most people are lost during all their lifes and only find purpose when they change careers in their 40's. Other find meaning in their personal lifes and families, and put work as a non-priority in their lifes. 30 is really young and you will know that for an absolute fact when you reach your mid-40's.

[@AK-sg1uq]

Many people complain about ageism towards young people. But you miss the main point! Our culture says that being young is good! Youth and beauty are valued everywhere. The society loves children and young people, the society sells things using photos of children and young adults because everyone loves youthfullness and qualities associated with it. Of course, young people can be descriminated (for lack of experience, for example), but they are percieved good, in the first place. People look at young people with pleasure and communicate more readily with them… and help them more often. At the same time, elder people are perceived as people who are not really needed for the society, the general idea about ageing is that ageing is bad and challenging. You will even rarely see an elder woman on an ad selling an anti-age cream because noone is really ready to see an aged face and think - i do want to look like this -, people do not like aged faces (in general). The elders are not represented on tv, in movies, in the media… they are just hidden under the carpet like they are not the equal members of our society! Also, The basic ideas - youth is good, ageing is bad - are not equal… aged people are being descriminated unproportionally more at least because of this basic ideas.

[@ginacirelli1581]

As a 59-year-old woman, I have become invisible. Today a man in his 30's just marched right up in front of me when I was waiting in line to check out at a store. I've gotten to the point where I don't care what people think anymore. I shouted "What, am I invisible?" The guy flushed and hurried out. I exclaimed, "Hey, I'm invisible!" and a few folks my age caught my eye and smiled in commiseration. This has to stop.

[@chelseashamim9148]

@Brown Incel ?

[@dr.ogwangjoshua1391]

You are very visible. Don’t let unraised kids and adult non grownups make you feel any less than you are. You are valued and lived.

[@jenniferxuetongd7109]

Someone once told me that I would never get anywhere in life because I was dreaming big, young in age, and my race. Well let me just say that I've proven them dead wrong. Not even 20 yet and I've managed to not only lengthen my resume long enough to be shocking, I've gotten myself a great part-time job that pays more than minimum wage at a reasonable time length. I'm moving on in life to university, putting in my part to take care of my parents while they take care of me, and most of all I'm far more happy than that person who put me down when I was "too young". I'm not just another person who "stuck lucky" and I definitely am not privileged. I'm someone who has hustled hard and earned my keep. It's not age, race, or anything that makes a person successful, it's the work they're *willing* to put into what they do. People are fascinating in that way. When we put in enough effort, or even have just enough support to push forward, the boundaries are erased and limitations can be farther than the sky can reach. We see it everyday, we just don't seem to notice it every time it happens.

[@Hassanthehorse]

"It's not age, race, or anything that makes a person successful, it's the work they're willing to put into what they do." Do you have any evidence that supports your claim, or are you basing it on your own experience/emotions/idea of what ought to be or feels true? It's a very empowering way to view the world (if I put in X amount of work, I will undoubtedly receive Y) because it convinces you that you're in complete control of your fate, but it also tends to give room for blaming victims for circumstances which they had no control over; if working hard enough will give you the rewards you deserve, what does that say about those who are unfortunate? youarenotsosmart.com/2010/06/07/the-just-world-fallacy/

[@cocoaempress8891]

I enjoyed this speech a lot. I agree with the point that culture shapes how individuals look at aging. In Western cultures, older individuals are not seen as valuable members of society anymore. In other cultures, growing old is an honor and younger individuals hold them in reverence for their knowledge and wisdom. Aging in America is seen as a loss of life, in a way... all we see are anti-aging everything BUT an anti-aging diet, but that's another conversation. I will piggy back another poster in that the sociological construct of ageism is created; however as we age, processes change...its a biological fact. Not everything is ageism, just like not everything is racism, sexism or homophobia. There is an overuse of -ism's in American society now. Sometimes, facts hurt... but that does not negate the reality that they are facts.

[@KimmiiaS]

I believe that what she wanted to say is that yes age my cause many health issues but if a healthy 70 year old with enough physical and mental abilities wants to let's say work somewhere or share his points of view he deserves the opportunity and should not be insulted and attacked with derogatory comments like " ok, boomer ". I am 26 and I already get the " ok, boomer " comment. Also people function pretty well up to their mid 70s. But nowadays old age already starts at 25 and that is crazy !!!!

[@juliachambers725]

I loved it. Great speech! Love older people and they deserve the best!

[@happybirthday146]

As will you.

[@alexsmith4982]

Some really brilliant and eye opening statements here. As a young person I had not thought about these things enough but now that I'm paying attention more and more I see just how prevalent this is everywhere in Western society. So much so that most people aren't even able to see it (judging from the comments complaining that young people have it bad too). Sure ageism impacts the young as well and Ms. Applewhite touches on that but let's be honest it's nowhere near as far-reaching and damaging as the ageism present against older people, so we absolutely should focus on that!

[@KimmiiaS]

All the young people genZ-eners in particular will get old. Youth is not eternal. We are not different species. We aren't born as a " child" - " teen" -" Young adult " - " Adult " - " middle aged " - "elder" . All of us will go through all of this stages in life. I was a child than a teen than a young adult. Now I am 26 and I officially became part of the " old " population . I didn't even feel how time passed. I STILL can tell you in detail how I was running around in my neighborhood with my friends as an 8 years old. It feels like yesterday. So all what the youth is doing nowadays with attacking the older generations is creating a toxic future for themselves.

[@melissagreen_]

It's interesting that young people actually have that attitude that they are discriminated against for being young, when in truth, they simply have not yet developed those skills or experiences YET and by ignoring the fact that building skills actually takes time, this attitude IS the bias against older people, because as you get older it makes sense that you are more experienced. Young people don't seem to understand this, they want to go from school to CEO without putting in the time it takes to gain that experience. Hence we have older and highly skilled people being pushed aside and under valued for that exact reason.

[@KL-bg8fi]

I really needed to hear this talk as a young adult who has fear of aging 👍👍👍👏👏 Applewhite did an amazing job in this speech. Short, precise, inspiring, and incredible!!!

[@ZiemniakPospolity]

As an enemy of most of the Social Justice Workers ideas I have to say that her speech wasn't bad at all. She said that illness and real problems older people must face are true, but besides of that we shouldn't feel worse just because of the age. I understood is as a message: don't let that nocebo works. A lot of people are absolutely healthy and their body is still in a good shape, but they feel old just because they know they are 40 or 50+. And they start to behave like old, ill people. This is what this woman mentioned: as long as your body can work properly (and sometimes it's possible to the end of the life), don't let your spirit feel old and don't behave like you will die soon. Her speech is imho reasonable.

[@reneewildfang1820]

i love this because the hate that people in america give to becoming older is absolutely ridiculous. there are so many other cultures throughout time that have exulted old age bc of the wisdom and experience that comes with it. but then again america is an entitled, selfish, shallow culture, so its kind of to be expected that growing old is talked down upon even though literally everyone ages and there is absolutely no way to escape and you'll only live in fear and disappointment when you look in the mirror and see crows feet and smile lines. speaking of, what is so bad about crows feet? and smile lines? like are you serious people? you're whining because you were joyful. thats just screwed up man.

[@saniasaeed9698]

Great Ted Talk, she’s articulate, makes great points, and she’s funny. I’ve found that I’m my own worst enemy. Thinking Oh God, I’m getting older, I’ll be unappealing, alone, nobody will want me. I need to learn to be happy in my own skin without the incessant need for external approval and appreciation.

[@Cicely.S]

5 years later, still accurate! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@melissagreen_]

Sadly there is much less focus and attention placed on agism than just about any other 'ism' . Which is even more ridiculous when ageism itself does not discriminate based on gender, race or sexual orientation! We ALL get older and we are unconciously bringing about our own bad karma. I worked for a company that pushed the diversity message for sexual orientation but blatantly discriminated against me for my age and refused to hire me after a year of hard work due to 'we think you'll get bored'. You're either diverse or you're not, I don't think you get to pick and choose your causes and then call yourself diverse! ALL discrimination is wrong and hurts everyone.

[@Bella-cz6od]

Out groups will never be eliminated. Life is not fair. Get over it. Old, black, gay, poor, wealthy, white, Jew, Asian, Muslim, Christian, (does the list end?) America is about living together in spite of it all, not a perfect utopia. I'm old; you're old We had our youth so now, make being old something for the young to desire, not resent.

[@trhl1155]

Most of the middle level managers these days are in their 30s and when they want an analyst or associate they always go for 20 year olds as it’s easier to boss over them as against a more qualified 40 something year old. This happens mostly in corporate offices because the HR and the manager don’t pay salaries from their own pockets. Mature people would benefit more by targeting small business owners who wants quality work rather than glamour.

[@samuraichampionz]

Ageism is a double edged sword.

[@ΜαρινάκηςΣαλόνικαΘ7]

EVERYBODY IS TALKING ABOUT AGE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THE ELDERLY BUT THEY FORGET ABOUT LEGAL (UNFORTUNATELY) DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THE YOUTH!!!!!!

[@grannybooster9188]

This is the most successful attack on ageism that I've ever seen. Nice work, Ms. Applewhite!

[@drewlovli7299]

Ageism isn't a social construct, in the work force it's just maximising profit. someone in their 60's is going to cost more to a business through health cover than someone in their 20's. you may have more experience when you're older but your body has faced far more wear and tear than someone younger and you cost more to support and keep alive in general not to mention they have a higher minimum wage than workers in their 20's

[@Viickatnite]

Rick Sanchez that's what makes it a social construct. It's not necessary for life or "natural;" it was a concept created for financial benefit.

[@RubsNL]

Capitalism is a social construct. A horrible one.

[@warezpl0]

Rick Sanchez not to mention many middle aged people have families, so that's potentially a lot more money to cover health benefits and everything else.

[@winnieponcelet680]

Except the term 'isms' is generally understood to refer to racism, sexism, agism, ... in this context.

[@drewlovli7299]

Victoria Akanno I still don't believe it's a social construct, it may not be necessary for individual life but for the the species it is. Even as humans were first developing you see evidence that the young and strong members of of groups were the ones that would do the hard work like hunting, building and so on while the older members would not. They'd offer their wisdom yes but not their physical abilities. You also see this in the animal kingdom (particularly pack predators) where the younger and stronger members will be the ones that hunt. Just because we do something as humans doesn't mean we socially constructed it. Some behaviours are still instinctual

[@ziggylaurie2268]

I’ve been told I’m obsolete, worn out etc... I’m the “ old lady” at work. I’m only 44, just wondering what I’m going to be called when I’m 60?!!

[@annbreadin]

40's are certainly not old! It makes me laugh, ageism crept up towards me on social media groups like the socially accepted statement of superiority is "I'm younger than you"! This doesn't depress me on a personal level but the thought of ageism being acceptable across the board does. Some of the most interesting people I've ever met are in their 50s & 60s! I'd never have called them "old" they don't look or act it. We have the same names & identities no matter what the number on our birth certificate dictates. Some "I'm so young" types didn't even experience the wonder of the 90's, so they've no room to discriminate!

[@ziggylaurie2268]

@TheFrostyPhoenix you need to be supervised. That’s not ageism, it’s common sense

[@ziggylaurie2268]

@TheFrostyPhoenix no it’s called being responsible.

[@LindaPD23]

I agree we should challenge bias and prejudice including ageism. Younger people say we are just being grouchy when we speak up though.

[@ronkatz4230]

Terrific presentation. While it is important to "pass the torch", that doesn't mean that people should automatically be excluded because of their age. Thank you for sharing this.

[@snorrevonflake]

2:58 that i am nothing but a slightly older version of myself is imo a very positive and realistic view of aging, at 55 so far i am 25 year old me 30 years later, not older.

[@shaminoranger8588]

Utter, utter, nonsense. I'm an older guy and everywhere I look there are special benefits, handouts and fast-lanes for my generation that aren't available to youngsters. Stop kidding yourself lady, you're a member of the most wealthy generation in history and that wealth is being preserved at the expense of youngsters today.

[@shaminoranger8588]

OK Chal Fish, here's what I did, I watched the video again with a pencil in hand and tallied every time she made a comment about ageism from the perspective of an older vs a younger person and here are the results: younger: 2, older: 39. I only found one place in the video where she clearly said it goes both ways, at 1:41. Counterbalance that against the snarky quip she made towards young people at 7:30. The rest of the video is entirely biased, talking about ageism from the perspective that it's a phenomenon that negatively impacts people as they get older, that ageism is discrimination against older people. This wasn't even remotely close to being an even-handed presentation. She's full of it, just talking her book. When she starts talking about all the privileges that older people have, I'll start listening. Maybe then she could investigate what happens when politicians start talking about taking those special privileges away in the interests of fairness (which is what she should call for if she wants to truly fight for age-based equality). I've seen it first hand. It's us oldies who protest the most and fight tooth and nail to keep our special privileges. Like so many of the SJWs, the lady in this video is only interested in boosting the lot of her preferred tribe(s). She is NOT interested in actual equality.

[@missylks1239]

Amen! Those baby boomers think they are paying too much in taxes? Just wait until the big baby boom retires and needs SS. The smaller generation of millenials will be suffering with tax increases.

[@daxter956]

Ageism is not the last acceptable prejudice at all. Classism is still a huge issue, people ignore and stereotype homeless people all the time

[@riptyurass302]

Yes but discrimination is when people treat you differently based on something out of your control whereas wealth is not something that is necessarily out of your control. Not that I think you will succeed by hard work all the time, but it’s definitely not the same as discrimination of race, age, gender, ect Discrimination of wealth is more in line with discrimination of fat people, it can be changed but it takes hard work.

[@emackb1457]

"All isms[...]racism, sexism, homophobia" lol I get he point, but I was funny cuz one of her examples wasn't an "ism"

[@carolinagonzalez4057]

as a Mexican we always been taught to respect admire and learn from our grandparents all for wisdom and understanding that they hold emotional intelligence better than us I personally hate whenever people speak to there elders like a 5 year old especially whenever there perfect from there brains

[@Perfect_Bond]

Surprised the comments haven't been disabled....

[@alwaysuseless]

Ironically, the negative comments support the presentation by demonstrating just how prevalent and serious the problem of ageism is.

[@jetlagrob]

Great video... I feel younger now!! Ageism can be cured by waiting 60 years.

[@polychats5990]

lmao when you get old it isn't a social construct where your body just changes, it's a process where your body breaks down until you die.

[@TheBettinale]

even if you don't actually think about it, it is a great talk, and so true! I'm in it, from the start!

[@darrenmarchant1720]

some aspects of the human condition are relevant to the age of the person, some are not. to disrespect someone on the basis of their age is a fallacy. a person can contribute tremendous value to a society at every stage of their life. at each stage of a persons life they are likely to contribute in ways that are unique to that stage of their life. a twenty year old male that has the life goal of having a large family is not expected to marry a 65 year old female. a 65 year old machinist is likely to have a lot to teach to the next generation of 12 year olds. it is all about context.

[@anitajobjob3430]

we are the age of stars, existence is so much more than the isms of humanity.

[@monicaeastway4534]

BRAVO! Thank You Ashton!!!

[@christinatorres7447]

great public speaker! I really enjoyed this Ted talk.

[@neilybugg]

This lady doesn't actually feel old to me

[@AngelHxze]

Proving her point ?? Lol

[@existentialmonster4059]

My problem with rejecting and accepting dates is: I don't want the older person to think I'm a plaything or to fall all over themselves to be nice to me, and if I am open to older partners I want younger partners to be open to me too, but they aren't always. It's really hard to want to be open if you're afraid others won't be open too.

[@antman1672]

Why should it be ok to weigh the needs of the young against the needs of the old (or vice versa, I'm assuming)? Ok lets abolish social security.

[@rohitkohok885]

NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE ,HOW EXCEPTIONALLY YOU PUT IT M'AAM...................HATS OFF ...HATS OFF........HATS OFF..............

[@NewLife2028]

Hello old fuckers! I’m 59 and JUST STARTED Life 4.0. I taught myself Spanish fluent enough to pass as a Spaniard in Spain, in just two years (because I developed the way and had the time). I’m an oil painter centered on fantasy realism. I'm a novel writer with one published work and more coming and I’m an Astrologer. YOU, over 36ish are my focus!! I don’t have any visiting friendships. I would nearly kill to have Spaniards for friends but, I'm willing to accept English speakers who are interested in learning Spanish of Spain, traveling to Ireland and Spain, Viking warrior wannabes welcome! There's something seriously broken about US, in two ways. First, we try to hold on to youth by befriending young people who constant reject us. That’s painful and it’s also stupid. We don’t wanna look at ourselves in the mirror or another head of gray hair. I get it. But, the alternative is LONELINESS, and that sucks more than anything else. Go ahead an mock me for reaching out. Says everything about you and nothing about me. Otherwise, say hi. Reach out. I had the courage. Do you?

[@hbf108]

Thank you so much for this talk. could not agree with you more. Love it. 😍😍

[@thaislindemayergomes8009]

She is amazing!

[@bokchoiman]

You're right, we should give everyone regardless of age mandatory health screenings, that way the selection process is purely objective.

[@ermirapirdeni1817]

Great TED Talk of Ashton Applewhite about aging a topic so resonant, that it accompanies demographic change around the world!

[@TruffelChocolade]

I just love how she tells me what is wrong with me, she knows me so well!

[@CircumCrippledTV]

09:12 YES.

[@funnatopia704]

Ageism is _universal._ Its affects both old and young, either because young people think old people are weak or that old people think young people are stupid. You can't really get rid of something forever when only half of it is recognized...

[@Native722]

Ageism is real, People inject the ir on biases into interviewing or just anything in general

[@Alitari]

9:50 ... Urbanisation fuels ageism? I get that city cores are often seen as the place to be for the young/hip, but urbanisation is GREAT for older people. It means more walkable neighbourhoods, closer access to higher quality health care, and regular, more reliable public transit.

[@matthewkeppler5759]

Preach girl! Preeeeaaacchhh!!! Said the 34yr old who's sick of being hassled about how im not getting any younger. True, but why does that dictate my life's worth? Oh yeah, it doesn't.

[@shubbart]

Excellent! Uplifting video that I am sharing with all of my "elderly" friends. 🙂

[@slayer24164]

It's really sad how people instantly dislike the video just because it contains a topic that invokes some level of cognitive dissonance.

[@slayer24164]

I don't see how she's bitter. All she's doing is pointing out our very own hypocrisies as a society. It's a tough pill to swallow; to accept that as a society we marginalise many for no appropriate reason, then attempt to justify it.

[@slayer24164]

I'm not saying it's a kafkatrap (not going to lie, that's the first time I've come across that word). Either way - I was subscribing to the idea that people protest ideas and concepts which conflict with their existing comfort. Making them address their own paradoxical behavior, as to not feel uncomfortable and logically inconsistent. The point is that people disliked the video, before even having watched it; being on some level aware of their cognitive dissonance and fearing that such a video may address it.

[@louisciamillo8690]

but is it sad when i dislike it because this moron is full of hypocrisy and lies? Hint: the answer is no and most people who disliked it thought about and absorbed her POV beforehand.

[@alwaysuseless]

+Sannidor Wow, what an intense ad hominem reaction! The talk was well-organized, clearly articulated with telling examples, and backed by data from reputable sources. The opposite of "full of crap." Of course, she doesn't like being discounted or looked down on because of her age. Who would? But as a successful writer and a well-received, invited speaker for a TED talk, I doubt that she's bitter. Bitterness is paralyzing.

[@AshtonApplewhiteVideos]

Thanks, I'm not. Also not lonely, also not a lesbian FWIW, lol.

[@MrTShbib]

Let's end identity politics and collectivism!

[@soupyvues]

I'm definitely with you!

[@SharlynRipkaSharzStarz]

Great talk!

[@kristinludlowUX]

Good talk. Thank you.

[@corenisveryconfused]

Young people who are particularly ageist against old folk are funny to me because you just know they are gonna be hit with terror the moment they hit like their 30s before even truly being old and it's gonna be their own fault. I for one look forward to intentionally shifting from making fun of my old friends to telling the youths to get off my lawn.

[@leondeiak]

Aging is a disease ... For all of us.

[@dampiemcfly]

I stand behind this!

[@PointOfImpactMinistries]

This was awesome!!! Love it!

[@justinwentworth1467]

when your watching Ted as a new upload hits your notifications...

[@martinpospisil3747]

What is funny is the kids in their teens and early 20s acting like anything beyond 30 is super old. Dont worry kid in couple years you will be old too. No one stays young forever.

[@galawhites5499]

Excellent (sarcasm) combo of sexism and ageism in lots of the comments . In our society only racism has been truly demonised (there's a reason for it) but sexism and ageism are still alive and kicking. Interestingly enough the two are strongly interrelated, due to the (hear hear) the double standard she's also talking about in the video in relation to getting older. Patriarchal capitalism still very much need to oppress women in all sorts of way in order to maintain the status quo and run the show.

[@debbieh5620]

People enjoy tormenting the seniors .

[@inspiredshift4086]

60 isn't even "old".

[@dinosaurus598]

It's middle aged , but that person is getting old.

[@aygeem1764]

This was a very insightful presentation!

[@benganchan1420]

US Election 2020 is the opposite as it is open to septuagenarians only. But the record goes to Malaysia where Doctor Mahathir unretired and came back to become Prime Minister again at age 93.

[@saunnoticed7401]

i'm getting tired of all these "ism's"

[@danielkim8025]

8 20 "plaques and tangles" are not positive factors in the brain that lead dementia as far as I know. Does anyone feel the same way?

[@anac1053]

This is so important!

[@rjciccone]

Being old is not a disability

[@cwl82108]

But nowadays many old people take it for granted and overuse their "old" too

[@bonnitaboone9391]

I loved it and will continue to rock on

[@hugoman98]

age is not a social construct it affects your productivity and personality

[@insignificantopinions3210]

hugoman 98 I would say that age heavily influences a person, but not all aspects

[@insignificantopinions3210]

Majestic CasuaI People tend to act different ways as they age, but maybe not age mentally the same as other people. Some people grow up fast physically, but mature later in life. Some people mature in both ways pretty fast and early for their age. I feel that sometimes measuring somone's age by years isnt a very good system. Some people mature physically or mentally earlier than others and then arent given "rights" and abilities because they're too "young." I guess its almost like age (years or age state) and maturity are like sexes and gender. Although I dont think we should start categorizing maturity and gender because few people will perfectly fit under a label and we didnt have labels for them before. Why would we need them now?

[@AshtonApplewhiteVideos]

Ageism, not aging, is a social construct.

[@Alpffine]

so is race and gender

[@galawhites5499]

AGEISM is, not age, and she made that perfectly clear.

[@Haz04712]

Great talk do another

[@iran2171]

The general idea is good, but the examples r not in their place...

[@mirageinmercuryshadow]

Yes! Iv been waiting for some1 to address this issue 👏

[@Johnny-vi7oq]

'Ashton Applewhite urges us to dismantle the dread and mobilize against the last socially acceptable prejudice.' (Description) Really? Even if you're talking just the US, I have a feeling a lot of people would disagree with you on that.

[@slimshany4602]

Excellent talk that the world needs, we've gotten disconnected from nature and thus we are lost. But I do feel like Miss Applewhite is exceptionally very good and young looking at 64 years of age.., and due to this the crowd may respond a little more positive too in my honest opinion.

[@shadowx089]

Ehhh, not many 60 year olds are able to keep up like a young 20 year old can. They are typically physically slower and weaker and take twice as long to teach. Half the coworkers I know can barely use a computer and some of them are only in their 40-50s. They don't explore beyond what they are taught. Had to teach people what a ZIP file was!!. Though, i do think elderly are good at talking. I'm thinking that's because they socialized more often to entertain themselves. While the young are more introverted and don't necessary need to socialize so often.

[@nancyleedunn]

That "older" person had the courage to learn what a zip file was. As an almost 60 year old, I can tell you most of my friends can still use computers, we bring a lot of perspective to situations in life and in work and we generally take good care of ourselves and don't overdrink and do other things that make us hungover and less productive at work. I remember going to work in my 20s with a wicked hangover. I can outwork that hungover young person any day of the week now. So your comments are showing how accurate the speaker was. Sadly.