Philosophy of Leisure : Foundations of the good life

This critical and intelligent new study interrogates the first principles of leisure. It explores traditional concepts in the philosophical analysis of leisure, as well as new focal points in the philosophy of leisure that are defined by recent developments in society, technology and the broader discipline of philosophy itself. The book’s central argument is that leisure is fundamentally a state of mind directed towards leading a good life. The book explores key issues surrounding that argument such as identity, ethics, spirituality, pleasure and play, concluding with a discussion of the fundamental properties of leisure and the challenge of offering a meaningful definition.

What is leisure? How does leisure relate to leading a good life? This critical and intelligent study interrogates the basic principles of leisure and demonstrates the continuing relevance of these questions for our society today. It not only explores the traditional philosophical concepts at the heart of leisure studies, but also pursues new possibilities for reconceptualising leisure that have emerged from recent developments in society, technology and the broader discipline of philosophy itself.

Approaching leisure from a philosophically inquisitive perspective, the book argues that leisure revolves around the pursuit of happiness, human flourishing and well-being, making it both a state of mind and a state of being. Its exploration of the meaning of leisure addresses key issues such as identity, ethics, spirituality, human experience, freedom, technology, embodiment, well-being, the fundamental properties of leisure and the challenge of offering a meaningful definition.

Revitalising the subject of leisure studies with its originality, Philosophy of Leisure: Foundations of the Good Life is fascinating reading for all students and scholars of leisure studies, philosophy, sociology, psychology and ethics.