New Directions in the Theory and Research of Serious Leisure

by Robert A. Stebbins

Stebbins (socioiology, U. of Calgary), who coined the term "serious leisure" some 20 years ago, analyzes the roles of volunteering, knowledge and arts cultures, and cultural tourism in modern society. He contends that serious leisure has largely supplanted the Church, State, and organized labor as forces for identity and civic cohesion. Part I overviews this concept and the "liberal arts hobbies" and other pastimes that comprise it. In Parts II and III, he elaborates on cultural tourism; leisure education; and recent theory, research, and issues. Lastly, the benefits of serious leisure in the "job-reduced future" and new research directions are considered. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

194 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2001