Invasion of the Old, Grey Whistlers

I have been struck recently by how many of the articles I read on the Biological, Economic, Medical and Psychological consequences and considerations of the Covid-19 pandemic are written by people who are, like myself, 'Emeritus Professors'. Just to clarify this peculiar UK designation, these are usually relatively mature (i.e. 'old') academics who reached the most senior category at their Universities  and have 'retired' (a very variable concept, ranging from totally ceasing to do research and/or teaching to largely carrying on just as they always did), before they could bring their institution 'into disrepute' (an academic crime). The vast majority, maintain links with their 'old' University (on councils and such like) and a goodly number continue to meet or communicate with their former circle of  academic colleagues (often world-wide). Many carry on reading about their former specialisms (it can be addictive). I have wondered why so many feel impelled to add their 'six-penneth', when there is a new (or at least newer) generation of academics to call on. Reasons could include the following:- 1) The people commissioning the articles might feel the accolade adds gravitas; 2) The writers may feel that providing articles is a nice little earner (although I doubt that this is a major motivation, in most cases); 3) Publishing the article reminds people that 'retired folk' are still about; 4) Younger academics (still on the grant obtaining and promotion-gaining treadmills) might feel that they have more to lose, especially if they are challenging 'official' viewpoints (in deed,some Universities require their employed staff to follow particular guide-lines when doing media-related work) and 5) The Emeritus Professors have, over long careers, often seen it all before and can become enraged about what they see as an infantilization of Science and decision-making. I would say it, wouldn't I? but I am glad that Emeritus Professors are something of a law unto themselves. Transparency requires alternatives to be presented and, after all, we are part of the cohort that is vulnerable to Covid-19.