In America, there is a lot of talk these days about President Joe Biden being “elderly.” The term is used to describe his age in a way that focuses on possible physical or cognitive declines that can be associated with aging. What comes to mind is frailty, dependence and a diminished capacity to contribute to society. Beyond Biden, elderly is a term perfectly used to reinforce stereotypes that marginalize older individuals, focusing on limitations rather than capabilities.
In these combative times, name-calling Biden elderly is a great ploy, a useful device that can be played over and over to harm the faith citizens would otherwise have in our president. I’d like to encourage everyone to pause in this way of thinking for the next few moments. I’d like to encourage us to imagine choosing the term “elder” for Biden.
Elder carries a more positive and respectful connotation, emphasizing wisdom, experience and leadership. Being called an elder is a sign of respect and honor. For Biden, it confers upon him the reality of his knowledge, insights and skills developed over a lifetime of serving America. The term acknowledges the relationship between Biden and the people he serves, respecting this time of his life when all that he has become in life contributes meaningfully to society.
It seems that we have much to learn from cultures that value their elders, look to their elders for leadership and guidance and value their judgment and decision-making abilities. For Native American and indigenous cultures, elders are often consulted on a wide range of matters — from community decisions to personal advice — reflecting their role as custodians of cultural heritage. For Asian societies (e.g., China, Japan, Korea), elders are respected as authority figures within families and communities, and their advice is highly valued in personal and professional contexts. For African communities, elders are often involved in community leadership, mediation and the passing on of oral histories and traditions. For Pacific Islander cultures (e.g., Maori, Samoan), elders are central to maintaining the fabric of society, including language, customs and social norms.
Across many cultures, elders are recognized for their life experiences — experiences that embody resilience and the ability to navigate challenges. Biden has endured great sorrows, realized great successes and navigated family and national trials. Being a time-tested elder confers to Biden many qualities that he is using for the betterment of, and on behalf of, America.
Biden has an extensive career in public service, endowing him with a depth of experience in both domestic and international affairs. He has the wisdom of time devoted to America that informs his decision-making and leadership. This wealth of knowledge enables him to navigate complex political landscapes, forge bipartisan relationships, and address the nation’s challenges.
Biden’s role as the elder statesman of the United States allows him to draw upon a lifetime of public service, leveraging his insights and experience to guide the country through times of change and uncertainty. His tenure illustrates the strength and resilience that comes from experience, offering leadership that is informed by the past yet focused on shaping a future that reflects the values and aspirations of a diverse and dynamic nation.
In these contentious times, where statesmanship seems all but lost, Biden is the nation’s elder statesman, an elder to be proud to have as our president. Whenever we find ourselves falling prey to dismissing Biden for being elderly, we should rewind, reframe and hit play.
William H. Murphy is a professor of management and marketing in the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan. He is from the Twin Cities.
