“You’ll Never Walk Alone”: Phenomenology and Ageing in Contemporary Culture

Abstract

This article explores the theory of phenomenology and its relevance for understanding ageing. I begin by attempting to unravel the main theorisations of phenomenology and then explore how the use of a biographical method can be enmeshed in cultural contexts of ageing. In particular, I assess the relevance of the ageing body, and ageing identity for pointing toward a general theory that can be defined as a ‘phenomenology of ageing’. Part of the context for realising the potential of phenomenology is its dissection of meaning, not as fixed, but as fluid as found in the context of everyday life. Phenomenology provides a significant contribution to un-locking an understanding of what is means to be a human person situated within and across the life course. It can be used to reveal critical consciousness, understanding of personal identity and social meanings. This article explores the contexts, examples and situations within which the perspective can be illuminated for understanding ageing. Ageing is a biographical process and this will be dissected for understanding social theory.