The Theory of the Leisure Class

By Veblen, Thorstein

Book Id: WPLBN0000626487
Format Type: PDF eBook
File Size: 363.95 KB
Reproduction Date: 2005

Title:	The Theory of the Leisure Class
Author:	Veblen, Thorstein
Volume:
Language:	English
Subject:	Literature, Literature & thought, Writing.
Collections:	Blackmask Online Collection
Historic Publication Date:
Publisher:	Blackmask Online


Citation APA MLA Chicago Veblen, T. B. (n.d.). The Theory of the Leisure Class. Retrieved from http://www.gutenberg.us/

Description
Excerpt: Chapter One. Introductory The institution of a leisure class is found in its best development at the higher stages of the barbarian culture; as, for instance, in feudal Europe or feudal Japan. In such communities the distinction between classes is very rigorously observed; and the feature of most striking economic significance in these class differences is the distinction maintained between the employments proper to the several classes. The upper classes are by custom exempt or excluded from industrial occupations, and are reserved for certain employments to which a degree of honour attaches. Chief among the honourable employments in any feudal community is warfare; and priestly service is commonly second to warfare. If the barbarian community is not notably warlike, the priestly office may take the precedence, with that of the warrior second. But the rule holds with but slight exceptions that, whether warriors or priests, the upper classes are exempt from industrial employments, and this exemption is the economic expression of their superior rank. Brahmin India affords a fair illustration of the industrial exemption of both these classes.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents: The Theory of the Leisure Class, 1 -- Thorstein Veblen, 1