EDGEWORK Meaning and
Definition
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Edgework refers to the practice or engagement in high-risk activities or experiences that involve pushing one's physical, mental, or emotional limits in order to achieve excitement, thrill, or personal growth. The term "edge" here implies the boundary or limit beyond which an individual can comfortably operate, whether it be a physical boundary that may lead to danger or a psychological boundary that may lead to discomfort or anxiety. Therefore, edgework involves intentionally pushing these boundaries, often involving activities such as extreme sports, adventure pursuits, or daredevil acts.
The concept of edgework emphasizes the voluntary nature of engaging in high-risk activities, where individuals actively seek out and participate in these experiences, fully aware of the potential dangers or discomfort involved. Edgework is often associated with the pursuit of intense sensations, the desire for mastery or control over a challenging situation, or the search for personal growth and self-discovery through facing and overcoming fears or limitations.
The term "edgework" was popularized by sociologist Stephen Lyng in the early 1990s in his influential book "Edgework: The Sociology of Risk-Taking," where he explored the motivations, meanings, and consequences of engaging in high-risk activities. Since then, the concept has been widely studied and applied in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and philosophy, to understand human behavior, motivation, and the pursuit of thrill or excitement.
Etymology of EDGEWORK
The etymology of the word "edgework" is derived from the combination of two elements: "edge" and "work".
- "Edge" comes from the Old English word "ecg", meaning "a cutting edge" or "a sharp point". It can also refer to the boundary or extremity of something.
- "Work" originates from the Old English word "weorc", meaning "something made" or "an act of doing or making".
When these elements are combined, "edgework" describes activities or work that involves sharp edges, boundaries, or extreme conditions. In a broader sense, it can also refer to any type of challenging or daring work that pushes the limits or boundaries of a particular field or activity.
