Editorial Is Gerontology Inclusive?

THE MEANING of the term gerontology is a matter ofcontinuing debate. On the one hand, the answer is simple; gerontology is the scientific study of the aging process and emphasizes a life course perspective. On the other hand, some scholars focus more on the study of older people (or organisms) and their problems, rather than the aging process per se. The difficulty in defining the boundaries and the foci of gerontology is not surprising, given that the field is only beginning to develop a paradigm (Ferraro, 1990). Although defining a paradigm for the field is a far-reaching task, it may be hepful as I assume the editorial reins of the Journal to attempt to define the boundaries and intellectual foci of this publication. Readers and authors alike wonder, what can we expect from the new editor? Are certain topics privileged? Will certain methods or theories be elevated? My general response to these queries is to frame it as an issue of inclusiveness. Does gerontology favor certai