* How are individuals and society ageing towards the end of the twentieth century? * How can different disciplines help us to understand the ageing process? * What are the key developments in postmodern thought and critical studies in relation to ageing and later life? In answer to these questions, the editors of this volume have brought together some of the leading figures in the field. Gathered together for the first time in a single volume, the authors discuss the latest theoretical developments in the international field of ageing. Drawing on research from the USA and UK, the book is strongly multi-disciplinary in content with chapters from both social sciences and humanities. The book provides a critical approach to our understanding of the experience of ageing and later life. It has been written for advanced students of gerontology and those with an interest in ageing and later life, but it is also relevant to policy makers and practitioners in the field. Key features: * First time work from the USA and UK has been available in one volume * Wide coverage of the latest trends and theoretical approaches in gerontology * Issues addressed from a range of disciplines - unusual combination of humanities and social science in one volume * Written by leading experts in the field