Play and work: from Homo ludens, by Johann Huizinga, to Creative leisure, by Domenico De Masi

Abstract

This study aims to discuss the relationship between play and work, in an historical perspective, having as first reference the remarkable and erudite work of Johann Huizinga, Homo ludens, and the more recent and controversial Creative leisure, of Domenico De Masi. The discussion only begins, therefore, in order to understand the new situations that are created in the present moment of the humanity, it seems to be a promising way, that which shows the world of work as compatible and close to the play, when before, on the contrary, the association used to be made on the other direction, from the world of play opening to the logic of professional activity and the rule of work.