Hippies created the first subculture in modern history to reject the inevitability of, and the necessity of entry into, adulthood. To reach this daring conclusion they had to defuse all of the American culture’s most valued mores, roles and expectations. They had to imagine and then choose to embrace life outside of both childhood and adulthood. They chose to explore the uncharted realms of NOT-adulthood.
The ability to see beyond what tradition, custom and culture tell you is normal, customary and expected is a remarkable gift. The ability to see what no one else has seen and do what no one else has done is what inspired the artists who first painted the cave walls in Lascaux. The Renaissance astronomers who first questioned the Earth-centric model of the cosmos and the amateur political philosophers who brought forth a democratic republic in North America also shared this radical commitment to free thinking. The Hippie movement’s historically unprecedented dismissal of adulthood was its most sterling achievement and its most unforgivable sin.
Hi, my name is Emily. I am an AGNG 320 student at the Erickson School of Aging. I think in order to remain positive and healthy about life’s changes, it requires a certain mindset. A mindset free of stress and one of pure fun and exploration. While the hippie movement in the 1960’s was a bit dramatic and sad, there no doubt was a mindset change in its’ population. Not only does remaining positive help within the self, it can be seen outward from others. Social support is greater when you remain positive and fun. A network of relationships can be built. While these relationships typically are seen to shrink with age, those who remain fun can increase the amount of connections. People who seek the fun in things are more likely to try new things. This can help with the different options said to help as you age. Many aging adults are resilient to change because they believe to only have one way of doing things that work. If the mindset is changed, however, not only does the active mind stay healthier, but new support theories may be put into effect.
As a 60s hippie who isn’t growing old (in the traditional model) gracefully I find this affirming and encouraging. Our generation can (and hopefully is!) questioning traditional views and carving a new path that will enable us to impact society the way we did in the 60s. Thanks for giving those of us who have hidden that past permission to come out of the closet. 🙂