Theory Leisure Paper

eoryThe Theory of the Leisure Class

by

Thorstein Veblen

A Penn State Electronic Classics Series Publication

The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen is a publication of the Pennsylvania State University. This Portable Document file is furnished free and without any charge of any kind. Any person using this document file, for any purpose, and in any way does so at his or her own risk. Neither the Pennsylvania State University nor Jim Manis, Faculty Editor, nor anyone associated with the Pennsylvania State University assumes any responsibility for the material contained within the document or for the file as an electronic transmission, in any way. The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen, the Pennsylvania State University, Electronic Classics Series, Jim Manis, Faculty Editor, Hazleton, PA 18201-1291 is a Portable Document File produced as part of an ongoing student publication project to bring classical works of literature, in English, to free and easy access of those wishing to make use of them. Cover Design: Jim Manis Copyright © 2003 The Pennsylvania State University

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Veblen

The Theory of the Leisure Class

by

Thorstein Veblen

One Chapter One Introductory ntroductor oductory

T

of a leisure class is found in its best development at the higher stages of the bar barian 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

HE INSTITUTION

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...