The Theory of the Leisure Class · Theme
Leisure Class and Exploit
How The Theory of the Leisure Class develops Leisure Class and Exploit.
The leisure class is defined by its exemption from productive industrial labor, instead engaging in 'honorable' but non-industrial occupations like warfare, government, sports, and religious observance, which are rooted in predatory exploit rather than workmanship.
Where it surfaces
- The Theory of the Leisure Class
The chapter defines the leisure class as those engaged in exploit—activities deemed honorable—while productive labor is relegated to a lower class.
- Introductory
The chapter defines the leisure class by its exemption from industrial work and its engagement in exploit—warfare, government, religious observances, and sports—which are considered honorable.
- III: Conspicuous Leisure
The leisure class engages in occupations like government, war, sports, and devout observances—forms of exploit rather than productive labor—to maintain its honorific standing.
- X: Modern Survivals of Prowess
The leisure class is portrayed as conserving the ethos of exploit through war, sports, and the duel, which are honorific activities rooted in barbarian prowess.
- The Belief in Luck
The leisure class's sporting life and gambling habits are presented as expressions of the predatory exploit, hindering industrial productivity.
- Devout Observances
The leisure class's devotional attitude is linked to predatory barbarian habits and a sense of personal status, contrasting with the industrial middle class.