Bentham’s lens on bonsai: Utilitarian perspectives in serious leisure

This paper explores the application of Jeremy Bentham’s utilitarian philosophy to deepen our understanding of inclusion and diversity within the realm of serious leisure (hobbies, voluntary activities, and amateurism), focusing on bonsai growing as a case study. Utilising interviews and data collected from bonsai enthusiasts in Australia, the paper explains how Bentham’s utilitarian principles can illuminate the dynamics of participation and engagement in hobbies. The art of bonsai exemplifies how inclusivity and diversity foster a sense of joy and accomplishment among practitioners. Cultivating miniature trees requires passion, purpose, and patience, creating a space where participants, irrespective of background, experience the benefits of their dedication. The paper uses Bentham’s utilitarian philosophy as its conceptual framework to illustrate the ethical considerations and societal benefits of promoting inclusion and diversity in serious leisure. Utilitarianism suggests that actions should be evaluated based on their capacity to maximise happiness and pleasure. Applying this theory to the serious leisure context acknowledges the potential of diverse and inclusive engagement to enhance participants’ overall well-being. Through the lens of Bentham’s utilitarianism, the paper depicts how these principles can be applied to understand bonsai growers’ motivations and achievements and, by extension, other serious leisure pursuits.