A philosopher asks: Is a longer life a happier one?

By Mackenzie Graham, The Conversation

Updated 1537 GMT (2337 HKT) July 23, 2018

The Italian diet, combined with a climate that promotes outdoor activity, is thought to play an important role in healthy aging among Italians.
Photos: The countries where people live longest
Italy – The Italian diet, combined with a climate that promotes outdoor activity, is thought to play an important role in healthy aging among Italians.
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Japan has the longest-living population in the world, with the average 60-year-old going on to live until age 86. Experts say this is due to good diets, active lifestyles and supportive family structure.
Photos: The countries where people live longest
Japan – Japan has the longest-living population in the world, with the average 60-year-old going on to live until age 86. Experts say this is due to good diets, active lifestyles and supportive family structure.
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Spain's version of the Mediterranean diet combined with strong family networks is believed to enhance life expectancy among its population. In Spain, average life expectancy at age 60 is 85.
Photos: The countries where people live longest
Spain – Spain's version of the Mediterranean diet combined with strong family networks is believed to enhance life expectancy among its population. In Spain, average life expectancy at age 60 is 85.
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France also tied second with the other countries in southern Europe with, those over 60 living to the age of 85, on average. Pictured, a couple sit on a bench in Cannes.
Photos: The countries where people live longest
France – France also tied second with the other countries in southern Europe with, those over 60 living to the age of 85, on average. Pictured, a couple sit on a bench in Cannes.
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Diet and outdoor lifestyle in Andorra help to keep the country's elderly population healthy.