From Here and Now to Eternity

DC: Theoretically it can. I have seen all kinds of predictions about that sort of thing: What do we do with all these old people? But, you know, the human mind is so creative that I think, in fact, that it will have an upside and not a downside. We will see a decline in the birth rate, a more equitable distribution of wealth, more responsibility on the part of the elderly. And we will see that in fact going on to become a springboard for creativity.

PT: In other words, if, as they get older, people continue to see themselves as contributors, they will keep on contributing?

DC: Right. And we will all benefit from their contributions.

PHOTO: Deepak Chopra, M.D. (MARK HOMAN)