In societies around the world, there’s a pervasive assumption that age is synonymous with wisdom. We are taught to respect our elders, to value their experiences, and to seek their counsel. This veneration of age, while culturally ingrained, can be problematic when it blinds us to the reality that not all older individuals possess the wisdom we attribute to them. In fact, some of the most glaring examples of poor judgment and harmful actions come from those who should ostensibly know better: educated elites and seasoned leaders who support and perpetuate bad governance and societal ills.

As a young person, I find myself increasingly frustrated by the disconnect between age and wisdom. It’s disheartening to see the same individuals who advocate for respect based on their age simultaneously supporting policies and behaviours that harm society. This paradox raises important questions about the true nature of wisdom and the criteria we use to define it.

The Myth of Age Equals Wisdom – Being old doesn’t mean you’re wise.

The belief that age brings wisdom is deeply rooted in our traditions. In many cultures, elders are seen as the custodians of knowledge, with years of experience that younger generations can learn from. This respect is not entirely unfounded; many older individuals do possess valuable insights gained through a lifetime of experiences. However, this generalization can be misleading and dangerous when it goes unchallenged.

Wisdom is not simply a byproduct of aging. It is the result of introspection, learning, and the application of knowledge in ways that benefit others. Unfortunately, many older individuals, including those in positions of power, fail to exhibit these qualities. Instead, they cling to outdated ideologies and perpetuate harmful practices, demonstrating that age alone does not guarantee sound judgment or ethical behaviour. Being old doesn’t mean you’re wise.

Educated Elites and Bad Governance

The issue becomes even more pronounced when we consider educated elites who support bad governance. These are individuals who have had the benefit of higher education, exposure to diverse perspectives, and access to vast resources. Yet, despite their advantages, many choose to align themselves with corrupt regimes, endorse oppressive policies, and engage in unethical practices.

One might argue that their education and experience should make them the paragons of virtue and wisdom. Instead, we often see the opposite. The reasons for this are multifaceted:

  1. Self-Interest and Greed: Many educated elites support bad governance out of self-interest. They benefit from the status quo and have little incentive to challenge it. Their positions of power and privilege are maintained through the perpetuation of corrupt systems.
  2. Cognitive Dissonance: Despite their education, some individuals hold onto conflicting beliefs. They may rationalize their support for unethical practices through mental gymnastics, convincing themselves that their actions are justified or inconsequential.
  3. Cultural and Institutional Norms: In some societies, corruption and bad governance are so ingrained that even educated elites view them as normal. Challenging these norms requires immense courage and conviction, qualities that not all possess.
  4. Lack of Empathy: Education does not automatically confer empathy or moral integrity. Some elites are disconnected from the realities faced by the general populace, leading to decisions that are out of touch with the needs and suffering of ordinary people.

 

The Real Measure of Wisdom

So, if age and education are not reliable indicators of wisdom, what is? True wisdom lies in the ability to reflect critically on one’s actions, to remain open to new ideas, and to prioritize the well-being of others. It is characterized by humility, empathy, and a commitment to justice. These qualities are not confined to any particular age group; they can be found in individuals both young and old.

Young people, in particular, should be encouraged to recognize their potential for wisdom. We are often dismissed as inexperienced or naive, yet we bring fresh perspectives and a keen awareness of the challenges facing our world. Our voices matter, and our insights can drive positive change.

Challenging the Status Quo

It’s crucial for younger generations to challenge the myth that age equals wisdom, especially when it comes to governance and societal well-being. We must hold our leaders accountable, regardless of their age or education. Respect should be earned through actions and principles, not merely by virtue of having lived longer.

To the educated elites who support bad governance, it’s time for introspection. Your knowledge and experience should serve the greater good, not just your own interests. Aligning with corrupt systems and harmful policies is a betrayal of the very education you received and the society you claim to serve.

A Call to Action

As a young person, I call upon my peers to:

  1. Educate Ourselves and Others: Understanding the intricacies of governance, policy-making, and ethical leadership is essential. Knowledge is power, and by equipping ourselves with information, we can better challenge the status quo.
  2. Engage in Activism: We must actively participate in movements that promote justice, equality, and good governance. Our voices can amplify the call for change and hold leaders accountable.
  3. Foster Intergenerational Dialogue: While it’s important to challenge the notion that age equals wisdom, we should also seek to learn from those elders who genuinely embody wisdom. Building bridges between generations can create a more cohesive and informed society.
  4. Promote Ethical Leadership: Support and advocate for leaders who demonstrate integrity, empathy, and a commitment to the common good. These are the true markers of wisdom, regardless of age.
  5. Lead by Example: In our personal and professional lives, we should strive to exemplify the qualities we seek in our leaders. Integrity, empathy, and a commitment to justice should guide our actions.

Conclusion

Being old doesn’t mean you’re wise. This statement, while provocative, holds a critical truth. Wisdom is not a function of age but of character, introspection, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of others. As young people, we have a vital role to play in challenging harmful norms and advocating for ethical leadership. It’s time to redefine what it means to be wise and to ensure that our society values true wisdom over mere longevity.

In doing so, we can create a future where governance is characterized by justice and compassion, rather than corruption and self-interest. This is a future worth fighting for, and it begins with recognizing that wisdom knows no age.