“The Theory of Leisure Class” written by Mr. Thorstein Veblen gives the readers a very vast and elaborate study and analysis in to knowing what exactly the subject matter is. According to the author a leisure class is one which was known in the last stages of barbarian culture. There were different sub classes belonging to the higher barbarian culture and were classified by different employments. The leisure class comprised of very noble and priestly classes. But basically, these classes of people were non-industrial. They were again classified under government, warfare, religious observances and sports.

According to the author, the theory of leisure class had developed because of the barbarism and conquest of some tribes over others. Once the conquerors took control, they insisted upon intensive jobs to the conquered people which retaining the more dictating and violent work for themselves. In the view of the author, these jobs put on the conquered people did not support the society in any angle.

Veblen argues that the leisure class has been able to maintain its position through both direct and indirect coercion. They prevented members of the lower classes from owning weapons or learning how to fight. There by reserving themselves the honor of warfare. They also feel the leisure class to the other tribe. We possibly will also be aware of that the first priests and religious leaders be there as the part of the leisure class.

Download