China Social Science Review

No.1, 2024

 

How Law Shapes “Agedness”?

(Abstract)

 

Liao Yi

 

Discussions on how law shapes “agedness” should combine evolutionary and constructive dimensions to highlight specific socio-cultural meanings. The “virtuous agedness” of the Western classical era reflected the highest standards of “rationality,” and the Christian faith of the Middle Ages led it to the “kingdom of heaven,” giving rise to the image of the earthly “decrepit agedness.” After the modern era, the Western legal system eventually developed a preconception of “weak agedness.” In contrast, the Chinese legal system has a more positive and stable image of “ethical agedness.” Since modern times, the institutional changes of “revolutionary agedness,” “workers’ agedness” and “contented agedness” have reflected overall positive images and coherent structures, with a complex and balanced trend of development. A deep understanding of the legal shaping mechanisms of agedness can help us to fully optimize both doctrinal interpretations and practical strategies.