A new approach to understanding tourism practices. (September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bargeman, Bertine; Richards, Greg
• Is Part Of: Annals of tourism research. Volume 84(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-09
• Subjects: Tourism participation -- Practice theory approach -- Actor-context dichotomy -- Interactions -- Ritual chains; Tourism -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2020.102988
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-7383

Abstract

Abstract: In spite of renewed attention for practices in tourism studies, the analysis of practices is often isolated from theories of practice. This theoretical paper identifies the main strands of practice theory and their relevance and application to tourism research, and develops a new approach to applying practice theory in the study of tourism participation. We propose a conceptual model of tourism practices based on the work of Collins (2004), which emphasises the role of rituals in generating emotional responses. This integrated approach can focus on individuals interacting in groups, as well as explaining why people join and leave specific practices. Charting the shifting of individuals between practices could help to illuminate the dynamics and complexity of tourism systems. Highlights: The analysis of tourism practices often remains isolated from practice theories. The main strands of practice theory show attendant strengths and weaknesses. An integrated practice theory can be relevant in tourism research. An integrated practice theory can help to explain tourism participation. An integrated practice theory aims to explain the dynamics in tourism practices.