Phenomenology of Play - (Studies in Contemporary Phenomenology) by Kiyokazu Nishimura (Hardcover)

About the Book

This book offers a unique theory of play that captures its phenomena--distinct from practical 'projects' yet still one of the fundamental modes of human existence--from a bodily perspective.

Book Synopsis

Traditional theories of play have either reduced it to an unreal, unusual activity akin to religious rituals or art, or to preparatory, simulated learning behavior for real social activities involving competition and rules. However, play is a unique way of living and acting in the midst of real life, just like sleeping, eating, or working. What distinguishes the structure of play--hide-and-seek, seesaws, toys, make-believe--from the structure of projects--magic rituals, tools, theater, sports? This book offers a unique theory of play, developing this question from a bodily perspective.

About the Author

Kiyokazu Nishimura is Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo. He studied aesthetics at the University of Tokyo, the University of Munich, and Columbia University. He has published monographs and articles on the aesthetics of fiction, environmental aesthetics, and Japanese art theory.