Sociology of leisure. Theoretical approaches, historical context and research perspectives
https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6401-2025-2-22-31
Abstract
Leisure is a multidimensional social phenomenon, studied simultaneously in philosophical, historical, sociological and other contexts. The article considers the formation of sociology of leisure as a research direction, identifying key approaches (functionalism, recreation theory, critical theory, postmodernism) and current trends (theories of digital, eco- and creative leisure, the theory of platform capitalism) of qualitative sociological studies of leisure. It is shown that leisure, originally conceived as a space of freedom and a means of increasing social solidarity and stability, is transformed by social theorists of the 20th century into an instrument of manipulation, exploitation and control, and in the new millennium – into a field of struggle between individuals, communities and corporations, becoming in some cases inseparable from working time. The victory of entertainment over meaning in the “leisure age” (according to D. Gabor) generates a certain anti-consumerist and countercultural impulse and attraction to alternative forms of leisure. Modern leisure is a hybrid one: it has both a commercial dimension and a platform for alternative practices, and its further study (including with regard to specific socio-cultural environments and age cohorts) requires an interdisciplinary approach.
About the Author
A. L. Guseynova
Russian State University for the Humanities
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Anna L. Guseynova, applicant
bldg. 6, bld. 6, Miusskaya Square, Moscow, Russia, 125047
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Review
For citations:
Guseynova A.L. Sociology of leisure. Theoretical approaches, historical context and research perspectives. RSUH/RGGU BULLETIN. Series Philosophy. Social Studies. Art Studies. 2025;(2):22-31. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6401-2025-2-22-31
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