Bored.: Why we need something to do every day (and what happens if we don't) - Paperback

by Jen Gash (Author)

Are we really "human beings" or are we more like "human doings"?

This book delves into the curious condition we call boredom, exploring how our obsession with doing-working, producing, achieving-has come to define who we are. From the moment we wake up and ask, "What do I have to do today?", to the way we measure weekends, introduce ourselves, and define our worth, action takes centre stage.

But what happens when the doing stops?

Drawing on psychology, culture, and a dash of dry humour, this book examines how chronic boredom affects our wellbeing, how busyness builds identity and community, and how our restless need to stay occupied ripples through capitalism, consumerism, and the environment. Oh-and yes, there are also chapters on sex, relationships, and shopping.

Chapter 1: Human being or human doing?
Chapter 2: Boredom: the good, the bad and the ugly
Chapter 3: Boredom and wellbeing
Chapter 4: Boredom and the creation of economy
Chapter 5: Boredom and the impact on the environment
Chapter 6: A way forward