MARCEL MAUSS CONTRIBUTIONS TO LEISURE STUDIES

Abstract

This study aims to identify and analyze possible contributions of the classical theory of Marcel Mauss "The gift", 1925, to leisure studies. The scientific production of leisure had strong influences of sociological studies, given the construction of the theoretical debate in this field from classical and contemporary authors. Anthropology is an area of knowledge that brings leisure contributions, especially by looking back the cultural dynamics in which different social groups are inserted and can thus complement and deepen aspects discussed originally by sociological studies. "The gift" was discussed in the research group and, since then, other texts were selected for the composition of this essay, following the suggestions of the group participants. As a technique, the forms of analysis of Severino (2007) were used: textual, thematic and interpretative. The study of the work of Marcel Mauss is part of a collective research project. The theory of the gift can be applied to leisure today from three points: 1) of the time and attitude category, 2) of the experience of values in favor: of the collective life, social life and respect for differences and 3) of the sociability aspect.