A FINE COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN.

The article examines the rise of gerontocracy in the United States, highlighting how Americans aged 55 and older have increasingly concentrated political power and wealth, now holding 74 percent of national wealth compared to 56 percent in 1989. It discusses the sustainability challenges of entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare, which currently pay out more than they receive in taxes and face insolvency within the next decade. The piece also explores intergenerational tensions, noting younger generations’ struggles with housing affordability and economic prospects despite earning more in absolute terms than previous generations did at the same age. Proposed solutions range from policy reforms to more radical ideas aimed at redistributing political power and wealth, emphasizing the need for a new social contract that balances support for both seniors and working families. [Extracted from the article]