London Review Bookshop Podcast Didier Eribon & Mendez: The Life, Old Age & Death of a Working-Class Woman
Oct 22, 2025
Didier Eribon, a renowned French sociologist and author, discusses his poignant new book, which reflects on aging, particularly through the life of his mother. He delves into the societal neglect of the elderly and what it means to truly represent their voices. Eribon shares how neoliberal policies have eroded care systems, making elderly isolation more common. He also touches on the complexities of family loyalty and racism, and the need for genuine political activism that advocates for the vulnerable in society.
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Rescuing His Mother From A Fall
- Didier Eribon describes finding his elderly mother locked inside her apartment after falling and being rescued by the fire brigade.
- He confronted the shock of seeing her naked, delirious, and unable to reach her keys while neighbors and firefighters intervened.
Speaking For The Voiceless Elderly
- Eribon emphasizes the need for spokespeople to represent elderly who cannot organize or speak publicly.
- He frames his book as taking that spokesman role to make isolated complaints political demands.
Old Age As A Political Issue
- Eribon argues old age and dying are political issues shaped by public policy and social neglect.
- He invokes Simone de Beauvoir to insist elderly voices need amplification in public debate.
