Bored and spoiling for a flight: capabilities lost and found in lockdown

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Human Development

Background:

• Human beings possess innate faculties that drive engagement in activities for fulfillment and dignity.
• Amartya Sen's concept of 'functionings' highlights that inactivity is unnatural and can lead to negative psychological states.
• Boredom, stemming from forced inactivity, can result in resentment, resistance, depression, or, conversely, stimulate imagination and creativity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the psychological and social consequences of forced inactivity and boredom.
• To advocate for authorities to reconsider command and control policies in light of human dynamism.
• To explore alternative outlets for pent-up energy generated by boredom, distinguishing between destructive and creative responses.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis drawing on Amartya Sen's capabilities approach.
• Examination of the human need for activity and the negative impacts of its suppression.
• Exploration of the dual nature of boredom as a potential precursor to damage or a catalyst for creativity.

Main Results:

• Forced inactivity and resulting boredom can lead to resentment, violence, depression, and dysfunction.
• Stillness can also be a catalyst for imagination, thought, and creative endeavors.
• Conventional policies may inadvertently trigger negative outcomes by ignoring human dynamism.

Conclusions:

• Authorities must acknowledge and account for inherent human dynamism in policy-making.
• Shifting from 'command and control' to approaches that channel energy can mitigate violence and foster creativity.
• Recognizing and addressing boredom is crucial for promoting personal and collective well-being and development.