The Problem of Failing to Engage in Recreational Activities Despite Ample Free Time: The Case of Oblomovism

Abstract

The concept of Oblomovism refers to a distinct pattern of behaviour characterised by a deliberate and active form of idleness, as distinct from mere laziness. The term derives from the lifestyle and behaviour of Ilya Ilyich Oblomov, the protagonist of Ivan Aleksandrovich Goncharov's novel Oblomov. This article examines the Oblomovian way of life and related behavioural patterns, analysing their similarities and differences in relation to other closely related attitudes. Oblomovism is examined in the context of individuals with excessive non-working time who struggle to engage in leisure activities, highlighting its psychological, social and economic implications. Schopenhauer's interpretation of boredom and Frankl's existential search for meaning are used to explain the existential emptiness and lack of motivation caused by Oblomovism. The increasing convenience provided by technology has further reinforced passive consumerism and contributed to the spread of this behaviour in modern societies. This study demonstrates that the ineffective use of leisure time has a negative impact on individual and societal productivity, and argues for the promotion of leisure activities as a countermeasure.