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Tourism uniqueness: Entropy reduction through volitional system switching

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  • Li, Chunxiao
  • Li, Lin
  • Li, Xiang (Robert)

Abstract

Understanding the unique features of tourism is fundamental to establishing and developing the distinct theoretical foundation of tourism research. Drawing inspiration from the second law of thermodynamics, this paper introduces a novel perspective on tourism's significance by conceptualizing tourism as a unique process of “entropy reduction” through system switching. It explains how tourists volitionally and temporarily escape the routine disorder of everyday life through environmental change and need drift, clarifying the pathways through which this occurs. By framing entropy reduction as a core criterion for defining “good tourism,” this study highlights its potential to bridge diverse academic perspectives and guide interdisciplinary research. This approach also directs future studies on psychological and behavioral transitions between habitual and non-habitual environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Chunxiao & Li, Lin & Li, Xiang (Robert), 2025. "Tourism uniqueness: Entropy reduction through volitional system switching," Annals of Tourism Research, Elsevier, vol. 115(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:anture:v:115:y:2025:i:c:s0160738325001227
    DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2025.104016
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