Traditions in the qualitative sociology of tourism

Three principal "traditions" in the qualitative sociology of tourism, departing respectively from the approaches of Boorstin, MacCannell, and Turner are outlined. The emergent "research program" implicit in each tradition, and the degree and manner in which it was realized and expanded by its followers is indicated. The process through which each subsequent "tradition" sought to resolve the difficulties and problems encountered by that preceding it is described. In conclusion, the principal developments in the qualitative sociology of tourism which took place in the process of transition from the earlier to the later "traditions" are spelled out, their interrelationships analyzed, and ways for their mutual accommodation proposed.