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The purpose of this eighth edition of "Pastimes" is to extend the discussion about contemporary leisure to new concepts supported by the latest research findings and scholarly commentary. In this edition much of the content is new, including an added discussion on architecture as material culture. As well, more attention to indigenous people within a leisure context is incorporated. There is also a new chapter that challenges us to look at leisure as a fundamental aspect of human rights. The implication of this chapter is to aid readers, learners, and instructors to think even more broadly about not only what leisure is but also what it can be. This new edition of "Pastimes" also contains new illustrations of concepts through field-based cases, new biographical features, new exploratory and participatory activities, and new research study summaries. More than a textbook, "Pastimes" is very much a point of view. It presents leisure as a human phenomenon that is individual and collective, vital and frivolous, historical and contemporary, factual and subjective, good and bad. Human life and its culture cannot be understood without understanding leisure. Leisure is a complex subject, yet worth knowing.

"Pastimes" (7th ed.) introduces the phenomenon of leisure and reflects a wide range of material from the disciplines of leisure studies, sociology, psychology, economics, political science, history, anthropology, geography, the humanities, and media and cultural studies. This book discusses leisure from personal, societal, and systems contexts, exploring topics such as leisure and health, and popular culture. Full of updated research and field-based examples in every chapter, this 7th edition also contains new photos and boxed material. Significant added features include separate chapters devoted to the humanities of leisure (theatre is added) and leisure history (more cultures and eras). Also, the chapter on theories of leisure has been expanded to include political science-based theories. The technology chapter is completely updated, and the chapter on leisure and equity now includes a discussion of immigrants. The author has taught at the higher education level. She has also published numerous college-level textbooks, published research in leisure sciences in refereed journals, and lectured internationally.

Originally published in 1996, "Pastimes" introduced an exciting new text that explored leisure and recreation philosophy and science, the various subfields, and the leisure services industry. This new edition is the result of what the author has learned from years of engagement with leisure theory, research, and personal and professional practice. Throughout the book, the author has tried to use the most interesting, relevant, and exciting information and approaches possible. More than a textbook, "Pastimes" clarifies the connection between leisure and being human.