Alter(n) als normativer Erwartungsraum

Kulturelle Spurensuche in sozialethischer Absicht

Abstract

Socio-ethical reflection on fair and just old-age security cannot start from a zero point, but begins with already existing social, economic and political institutions of old-age security. These institutions reflect normative determinations, and their legitimacy depends on whether they fulfill the goal of old-age security effectively, efficiently, fairly, and equitably. This paper analyzes and discusses the normative ideas that exist in German society with regard to old age(ing). The focus is not on individual arguments or concepts, but rather on more diffuse values that underpin the discourse. The article is divided into three steps: First, the connection between the value ideas and the sociological discussion about images of age is illuminated. In the second step, the central normative-evaluative conceptions in the complexes of age/aging and generation are examined. In this way, the diversity of value sets is reduced and focused. Finally, the results are summarized to illustrate the socio ethical relevance of these value concepts for old-age security. The paper shows that normative ideals and value complexes can influence the debate on old-age security reform, its legitimacy as well as its meaning. A differentiated discussion of these value concepts is of great importance for socio-ethical argumentation in order to ensure a critical connection to social debates.