ABSTRACT
Orthodox or conventional economics explains how things work according to what appear to be natural or neutral principles and this chapter questions whether these principles are genuinely natural or neutral. The chapter invites a critical look at the economic aspects of the world of recreation, leisure and tourism as it has developed and asks normative questions: has this world developed in a way that is good? Are there better ways of constructing this world and how could we go about achieving this? This chapter enables the reader to:
critique the assumptions of conventional economics
understand the Marxian critique of capitalism
critically evaluate the economic state of recreation, leisure and tourism
articulate desirable economic ends
explain alternative approaches to reaching desired economic ends and the roles of trade unions, Pressure Groups, The New Economics Foundation, Fair Trade and Pro-poor Tourism
critique the current state of recreation, leisure and tourism, and prepare a vision and personal action plan for achieving a better world.
