The Creative Age: Awakening Human Potential In The Second Half Of Life

by M.D. Cohen

For thousands of years men and women have risked their lives and spent their fortunes in a futile quest for eternal youth. In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned psychiatrist and researcher Gene D. Cohen takes us to the wellspring of genuine human vitality, the unique creative power generated by age and experience, and shows us how to tap this inner source to enrich, even transform our lives through middle age and beyond. A pioneering physician and respected international authority on aging and creativity, Dr. Cohen weaves history, scientific research, inspiring true-life stories, and his own fresh insights to journey into the previously uncharted territory of human potential in the "second half" of life. . The over-thirty crowd was once subject to ridicule by younger people, and anyone past age fifty was definitely "over the hill." But in a single generation, the view of life after fifty has changed dramatically. Today society is shaped by unprecedented growth in the number of people over fifty, shifting patterns of opportunity and responsibility at work and at home, and advances in healthcare that offer the promise of longer and more active lives. In this fascinating, life-affirming book, Dr. Cohen debunks harmful myths about aging and illuminates the biological and emotional foundations of creative thought and expression. He offers compelling evidence that the unique combination of age, experience, and creativity can produce exciting inner growth and infinite potential for anyone. For thousands of years men and women have risked their lives and spent their fortunes in a futile quest for eternal youth. In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned psychiatrist and researcher Gene D. Cohen takes us to the wellspring of genuine human vitality, the unique creative power generated by age and experience, and shows us how to tap this inner source to enrich, even transform our lives through middle age and beyond. A pioneering physician and respected international authority on aging and creativity, Dr. Cohen weaves history, scientific research, inspiring true-life stories, and his own fresh insights to journey into the previously uncharted territory of human potential in the "second half" of life---THE CREATIVE AGE. The over-thirty crowd was once subject to ridicule by younger people, and anyone past age fifty was definitely "over the hill." But in a single generation, the view of life after fifty has changed dramatically. Today society is shaped by unprecedented growth in the number of people over fifty, shifting patterns of opportunity and responsibility at work and at home, and advances in healthcare that offer the promise of longer and more active lives. In this fascinating, life-affirming book, Dr. Cohen debunks harmful myths about aging and illuminates the biological and emotional foundations of creative thought and expression. He offers compelling evidence that the unique combination of age, experience, and creativity can produce exciting inner growth and infinite potential for anyone.

Genres: Nonfiction

384 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Doug Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gene Cohen has research that shows that if we keep involved as we age, especially in the arts, we will retain our brain capacity much longer than previously expected. Cohen spinkles his engaging book with great stories!

[The_J · Rating 4 out of 5]

The subtitle "Awakening Human Potential in the Second Half of Life" could really sell it a little short. There is no question that this book is attempting to light a fire under people who may believe that all that is left is merely ash, but really this is a clarion call for Human awakening. Create become, and don't bother to look back. You want to create Social - there are suggestions here. Perhaps words are your forte - recommendations lie within. To live is to grow, to seek, to become; the opposite embrace is wither, look away, and cease. I would recommend this as a prod to your today in hope of a better tomorrow.

[Janet Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although almost 20 years old, I still found this to be an inspiring and insightful read. A bit dated in some aspects, I would recommend this book for anyone approaching midlife or transitioning during their 40s or later decades. I felt it could have been a bit shorter - but maybe because I was trying to finish quickly and it might be a better 'read in chunks' book.

[Sharen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although published 15 years ago, this book is filled with inspiring stories and ideas for le troisieme age! Regenerate rather than retire! Great suggestions for memoir writing included. Definitely recommended.

[Mary D · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting but not compelling

[MaryEllen Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Compelling arguments for why creativity is vital to life!