The Elders: Appropriating an African Traditional Idea

In spite of the ambiguity that may sometimes accompany the notion of being an elderly person in some African traditional societies, elders are usually respected because they are seen as people who are endowed with wisdom born of experience. Of course, not all elderly people are wise but elders are believed to be people who are supposed to be wise and people who seek the well being of their communities. It is this idea that the venerable Nelson Mandela of South Africa has appropriated to form a group of respected states-people around the world who may contribute in making the world a better place. For more on their activities, visit their website. Perhaps we need more elders in Africa.