Can Ideology—Ageivism—Contribute to Gerontological Research?

Abstract This commentary examines whether ideology—in the form of “Ageivism”—can contribute constructively to gerontological research. Drawing on feminist epistemology, and particularly Elizabeth Anderson’s argument that engagement with emancipatory ideology can strengthen rather than weaken scientific inquiry, the commentary explores parallels between feminist critiques of science and age-based critiques within gerontology. Four domains are identified in which an ageivist perspective may offer analytical and epistemological value: the age-based division of epistemic labor, the marginalisation of older persons’ experiential knowledge, the persistence of young-centric research agendas, and the reproduction of ageist assumptions within gerontological theories. Through these examples, the commentary argues that age-related biases do not merely affect the social treatment of older persons, but may also shape the production, interpretation, and legitimacy of gerontological knowledge itself. The commentary further distinguishes Ageivism from critical gerontology by suggesting that, while critical gerontology primarily interrogates existing assumptions and power relations, Ageivism introduces a more explicit normative and emancipatory commitment grounded in anti-ageism, dignity, and the human rights of older persons. From this perspective, Ageivism may serve not only as a form of political advocacy, but also as an epistemological standpoint capable of identifying blind spots and exclusions within gerontological research. Explicit engagement with such an ideological framework may therefore enrich the inclusivity, relevance, and epistemic justice of gerontology.