The reason I feel there needs to be a passing of the torch is because it is Episode VII. It's a continuation of the story that already exists. Unless they decide to clone the Emporer or maybe Anakin generations in the future, the only way they can really connect this to the existing storyline is to include that older generation from the OT. Otherwise why label it Episode VII?

I absolutely agree that I don't need those characters in a new Star Wars movie. I would love to see something take place in a completely different time period with completely different characters. But if you are going to call it Episode VII and expect it to pick up some sort of lose end or unresolved storyline from the I-VI Star Wars Saga, then the best way to accomplish this, in my opinion, is with a "passing of the torch" series of events.