"Old age adds to the respect due to virtue, but it takes nothing from the contempt inspired by vice; it whitens only the hair"

This quote by Ira Gershwin speaks with the suggestion that age does not necessarily relate to knowledge or morality. Regard for those that are virtuous is increased with age, yet those that are unethical or worthless will still be met with contempt despite their age. Age does not alter the personality of a person, yet it does transform their physical look. The quote recommends that age just whitens the hair, suggesting that age does not alter the character of a person, yet it does transform their physical appearance. This quote is a pointer that age ought to not be made use of as a step of morality or knowledge, which respect needs to be provided to those who are virtuous regardless of their age. It likewise works as a suggestion that age must not be made use of as a justification for immoral behavior, as it will certainly still be consulted with ridicule.