The age issue won’t be solved by driving out old scholars

Viva! Well written and timely. For those still on the way to his/her dotage ... continuing education is THE way to keep the door ajar. Our previous qualifications began to depreciate as soon as we put away our gowns! Professor Alderman, you has set the example!

Well said, Geoffrey! Of course, no one would suggest that a professor who is slipping in later years be kept in full-time post, but you are a classic example of the sort of dynamic individual whose experience and wisdom, as well as continuing energy, should be exploited to the advantage of their academic community. Indeed, not only are older academics valuable for their scholarly contributions, but their mentorship for younger academics is irreplaceable.