Enfoque biográfico y sociología de la vejez: hacia la delimitación de un diccionario común

The widespread development of both biographical research and sociological studies of old age and ageing has led to a terminological profusion which, however, has not necessarily produced greater conceptual precision. Within this context, the article seeks to establish a systematic review of the bonds between the biographical approach and the sociology of ageing. To this end, it offers a critical reflection on the theoretical and methodological implications of the life course paradigm, considered as a privileged point of convergence between the two research fields. The analysis undertaken leads to the conclusion that, as the life course assumed a predominant position and sought to complexify and expand its scope, a paradox arose between its scope as a concept referred to “curriculum models” and as a paradigm that must be addressed, especially when it is used within the social study of old age and ageing. In addition, throughout the article, differences and similarities with other notions (such as “trajectory”) are traced, with the aim of outlining a shared “dictionary” for both fields, in order to promote dialogue between them and to provide conceptual clarity about their terms.