ABSTRACT

The purpose of this research reflections paper is to explore the prevalence of the humanities in the journal Leisure Sciences over the last 40 years, since its inception. During this period has the prevalence of the humanities increased or decreased? An analysis of papers published in Leisure Sciences indicates that just over 3% have focused on the humanities (philosophy, history, ethics, the arts). There was an increase in humanities papers from 1985 to 1999; however, only one humanities paper has been published in the last 10 years. Implications for the next 40 years of leisure research include emphasizing the humanities in leisure studies education and encouraging special journal issues and conference themes focused on the humanities.