First published in 1987. In the context of the debate about the changing structure of modem economies, the growth of leisure, and the place of work and leisure in society, this book reviews the ‘state of the art’ of leisure forecasting and the study of leisure futures. It traces man's concern with future leisure from classical and utopian writings to science fiction and ‘futurology’. Contemporary issues such as attitudes towards work and leisure, the ‘work ethic’, education for leisure and measures to share scarce jobs and increase leisure time are discussed in an objective and comprehensive manner. The more technical approaches to leisure forecasting are presented in an accessible and readable form.

This book will be of value to students of leisure studies, recreation studies and public policy, to policy makers and planners working in the field, and to all those who have an interest in understanding what is happening to leisure and work in our society.