The Theory of the Leisure Class · Question
How does The Theory of the Leisure Class develop the theme of Predatory vs. Peaceable Temperament?
Answer
The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen develops Predatory vs. Peaceable Temperament across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book contrasts a predatory temperament (associated with war, sports, and the leisure class) with a peaceable, industrious temperament (associated with productive labor), arguing that the leisure-class culture selectively favors and preserves the former.
The transition from a peaceable to a predatory temperament is central to the emergence of the leisure class, as predatory traits become valorized.
The transition from peaceable savagery to a predatory phase is described, where aggression and seizure become the accredited forms of action, and productive labor is deemed unworthy.
The predatory stage of culture gives rise to ownership and emulation, contrasting with earlier peaceable communal life.
Evidence in the book
- The Theory of the Leisure Class
The transition from a peaceable to a predatory temperament is central to the emergence of the leisure class, as predatory traits become valorized.
- Introductory
The transition from peaceable savagery to a predatory phase is described, where aggression and seizure become the accredited forms of action, and productive labor is deemed unworthy.
- II: Pecuniary Emulation
The predatory stage of culture gives rise to ownership and emulation, contrasting with earlier peaceable communal life.
- The Conservation of Archaic Traits
Pecuniary employments conserve predatory aptitudes and animus, while industrial employments foster peaceable traits, with the leisure class favoring the former.
- X: Modern Survivals of Prowess
The chapter contrasts the predatory, warlike temperament of the leisure class with the peaceable, industrial disposition of the common people, and discusses the survival of archaic predatory traits.
- The Belief in Luck
The gambling propensity and belief in luck are analyzed as traits of the predatory temperament, contrasting with the peaceable requirements of modern industrial efficiency.
- Survivals of the Non-Invidious Interests
The chapter contrasts the predatory, self-regarding traits favored by the leisure class with the peaceable, non-invidious aptitudes that survive sporadically, especially as traditional predatory outlets fail.
