How is life expectancy generally defined?

Life expectancy is generally defined as the average number of years individuals are expected to live based on current mortality rates. This measure takes into account the overall health conditions, medical advancements, and social conditions that impact mortality rates within a population. It is a statistical estimate derived from life tables that reflect the likelihood of death at various ages, allowing for an understanding of population health and longevity trends. This definition captures not only the facts of individual lifespans but also emphasizes the impact of demographic factors on overall life duration.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of lifespan and health, which do not accurately capture the concept of life expectancy. The maximum age refers to a theoretical limit of human longevity, while the age of retirement is defined by societal norms rather than biological factors. Lastly, the statement regarding males living longer than females does not encapsulate the broader statistical understanding inherent in life expectancy. Therefore, the correct understanding of life expectancy centers on the average lifespan predicted from current data.