This lecture looks at how 'retirement' has developed across the planet as a concept, how it is funded currently, and how it might be supported in future. Malcolm Small examines increases in longevity together with the policy conundrums thrown up in consequence. All our lectures are available for free download from the Gresham College website, in video, audio or text formats: http://www.gresham.ac.uk Gresham College professors and guest speakers have been giving free public lectures in central London since 1597. This tradition continues today and you can attend any of our lectures, or watch or listen to them on our website. Website: http://www.gresham.ac.uk Twitter: http://twitter.com/GreshamCollege Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gresham-College/14011689941