Leisure
Wed, Apr 24
As we've been discussing, the classic distinction between "work" and "leisure" looms large in philosophy. Because the philosophical concept of leisure is so different than what we typically think of as "relaxation" or "time off," we'll spend a bit of time reconsidering it in this class period. Josef Pieper's text (summarized along with some helpful context and biographical information here) will provide our jumping-off point.
Goals - by the end of today's class, you will:
- Understand how Pieper distinguishes between "leisure" and a host of related concepts (e.g. "relaxation," "vacation," "time-off");
- Understand why he thinks this distinction is so crucially important; and
- See the implications this understanding of leisure has for the arguments for the value of the "contemplative life" that we've been developing and considering throughout this class.
Read This:
(Access readings on Perusall)
Primary Reading: Selections from Pieper, Leisure, the Basis of Culture
Secondary Reading: tbd
Do This:
After completing the readings for today, consider the following questions (which we will talk about in class):
- How does Pieper's notion of leisure compare with Mecking's notion of niksen? Which, to you, seems more integral to a well-lived life?
- Are there any aspects of culture (or any subcultures you can think of) that embody Pieper's notion of leisure? Any practices, traditions, or rituals that might allow us to set aside the "life of action" in favor of this more contemplative, restorative ideal?