Comment by Pengiko on July 3, 2010 at 12:24am

That's because people have to have 'a method' to learn from experience... otherwise experience is just things happening to them.

Comment by Asa Watcher on July 4, 2010 at 1:05pm

"Most people simply grow older and more irrational."
As an old geezer myself, I can't really agree. Most old people find introspection unavoidable, and as a result, are inclined to sit quietly and keep their mouths shut about things they have not experienced. Sorta like you and old age.

Comment by Miguel on July 4, 2010 at 3:05pm

Asa, sure as we get older there is more to be introspective about, but as Pengiko points out unless individuals have a method to rationally make sense of their experiences then that introspection may not be very fruitful. Who after all most often stands in the way of progress - not the young.

If wisdom was inevitable with age then there would be many wise people to offer us guidance. I think that I am particularly partial to the opinions of those old enough to have seen much. I am also often disappointed how few older and wiser people I find.

I look forward to you sharing the wisdom that you as a self-proclaimed "old geezer" have to share with us.

Comment by Pengiko on July 15, 2010 at 7:21pm

I think we should be careful with the use of 'most' when talking about human behavior. Especially when there is no statistical data supporting the statement. We can talk about tendencies when evidence is provided, and still then we should not forget that our interpretations might be wrong.

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