The Complex Relationship Between Capitalism and Fun

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The perception of fun is heavily influenced by capitalism, as society has conditioned individuals to equate time with money, leading to the belief that time spent on activities without monetary gain is wasteful. This association diminishes the value of fun, often leading to the misconception that significant financial resources are necessary for enjoyment. While money can facilitate certain experiences, it is not a prerequisite for fun, as evidenced by individuals in less affluent situations who find joy in simple pleasures. In contrast, wealthier individuals frequently become trapped in a cycle of work, sacrificing leisure for financial gain, thereby missing out on the enjoyment that can be found regardless of financial status.

What exactly is “fun?” How will you know when you’re having it? Do introverts have special alone fun? Is it okay to seek fun in bleak times? Catherine Price is an award-winning journalist and author who spent years researching the science of fun for her book “The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again.” She let me lob many questions at her including: adult vs. childhood fun, what’s the difference between happiness and laughter and fun, what does fun do to your actual meat body, how can you have more of it, do substances mean more fun, and how to have fun when the world is crumbling in cinders around you – and why it’s important that you do. It’s a fun one, I promise.

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