“This thoroughly intersectional and transnational analysis offers the first clear and systematic outline, and critical evaluation, of the concept of adultism. Accessible but scholarly, and with commendable interdisciplinarity, it presents the rationale for and conceptual foundations of adultism alongside practical examples and experiences as narrated by young people. It is compelling, cogent and committed, as well as nuanced in its claims. This book is vital reading for scholars and professionals in welfare, education and social work, including and beyond children rights advocacy and arenas.” Erica Burman, The University of Manchester

“This inspiring book envisages an adultism-free world, and it will serve as a crucial reference point for those working for equality and autonomy for children and youth.” Aoife Daly, University College Cork

“Why do school students have to compete, instead of cooperating and learning from each other? This book gives deep powerful analyses of countless anti-child systems, and how to change them.” Priscilla Alderson, University College London (Emerita)

“This book is transformative: a rich and inspiring provocation to new thinking and action that is deeply informed, wide-ranging and bursting with wisdom and insight.” John Wall, Rutgers University–Camden

“This is a wonderful book – a beautifully written, theoretically rich and example-filled examination of children’s status in the contemporary world.” Heather Montgomery, The Open University

Despite global advances in children’s rights, young people are routinely disregarded, overpowered and excluded. This persistent discrimination – known as adultism – permeates family life, education, urban design, legal systems and political discourse.

In this groundbreaking book, the authors provide a comprehensive introduction to adultism from an academic perspective while also emphasising its practical implications. Drawing on rich, real-world examples and research, they analyse it as a systemic form of discrimination, exploring how it evolved and is reproduced through language, institutions and everyday practices.

Timely, accessible and urgent, this book offers a vision for resistance and transformation, outlining how adultism can be challenged – by both adults and young people – to co-create a more equitable future.

Manfred Liebel is Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the Technical University of Berlin and Honorary Professor of Intercultural Studies on Childhoods and Children’s Rights at the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam.

Philip Meade is Lecturer in Childhood Studies and Children’s Rights at the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam and in Child Protection at Alice Salomon Hochschule Berlin.

1. What is adultism? A first approach

2. Adultism in social practices

3, Building a critical theory of adultism

4. Confronting adultism

5. How young people challenge adultism

6. Outlook: Clearing the way towards an adultism-free society

References