The politics of intergenerational relations.

The main purpose of this article is to emphasise the critical role of politics and political ideology in determining the nature of intergenerational relations. This is not the only source of influence on intergenerational relations but it has been under-emphasised in scientific inquiry. Social policies embodying political ideology have an impact at both micro and macro levels. The article summarises the ethical basis of generational solidarity, the nature of the social contract, the changes taking place in relations between the generations and the recent impact of political ideology on the social contract. The main point of reference is the UK.