LEISURE: HUMAN NEED AND DIMENSION OF CULTURE

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to discuss two theoretical and conceptual approaches of leisure. The first was systematized during the twentieth century by authors of different nationalities, mainly European and Americans. It is considered the hegemonic understand because leisure as opposed to work. The other approach, incipient in studies on the subject, sees leisure as human need and dimension of culture. This concept of leisure consists in the articulation of three fundamental elements: playfulness, cultural manifestations and social time / space. While a fundamental human need, leisure can be satisfied in multiple ways, according to the values and interests of individuals, groups and institutions in every historical, social and cultural context. Thus, leisure is a complex social practice that encompasses a multitude of cultural and ludic experiences contextualized and historically situated. The discussions are finalized highlighting the importance of considering a counter-hegemonic leisure and transformational perspective.