Critical Social Challenges in the Tourism Industry: Labor, Commodification, and Drugs

Book excerpt: Critical Social Challenges in the Tourism Industry: Labor, Gentrification, and Drugs is a groundbreaking book that delves into the often-overlooked critical issues within the field of tourism. The book adopts a critical perspective, shedding light on power relations, domination, and oppression within the tourism industry. By exposing these dynamics, the critical paradigm seeks to liberate both tourist destinations and employees from exploitative conditions. From examining the social and environmental effects of tourism to addressing critical topics such as gentrification, consumerism, commodification, and critical pedagogy, this comprehensive study offers a fresh and thought-provoking analysis of the field. With a focus on labor transformation, the formation of the working class, and the employment of women, children, and immigrants, the book uncovers the intricate labor processes and interactions within the tourism industry. Furthermore, it explores important aspects such as tourist-employee interaction, LGBT tourism, illegal sex tourism, and the use of drugs and psychedelics in the context of tourist mobility. This book is ideal for researchers and students in the field of tourism, offering a comprehensive examination of critical issues within the industry.