Comparing the Worth of the While in Fiji and Finland

Clock time is typically associated with monetary worth or labor, but Eräsaari's comparative case studies of clock time in Fiji and Finland show that it can express other values beyond monetary worth, such as Fijian hospitality and Finnish academic time management. He reveals the many ways in which clock time is deployed in value projects and the complex conceptual work required to make it a vehicle of valuation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Clock time, a concept that signifies diverse approaches to valuing temporal duration, often finds its association with monetary value or labor. Consequently, there emerges a mindset known as thrifty attitudes towards time, which perceives it as a valuable resource that can be either wasted or saved. In order to challenge this prevailing perspective, this essay presents comparative case studies of clock time in Fiji and Finland. By examining these two distinct contexts, we aim to reevaluate the broader range of values that clock time can convey, extending beyond its monetary implications. Through the comparison of two such dissimilar case studies, drawing on examples as diverse as the Fijian hospitality industry and peripheral waiting in Finland, Eräsaari highlights time's potential to serve as a sign and measure of other values. By employing a unique anthropological and ethnographic methodology, he uncovers the intricate ways in which clock time is deployed in value projects and the complex conceptual work necessary to transform it into a vehicle of valuation.

In Fiji, the concept of clock time takes on a distinctively relational and communal nature. Time is seen as a shared resource that is not owned by any individual but rather is collectively managed and utilized by the community. This perspective is reflected in the Fijian hospitality industry, where guests are treated with warmth and generosity, often extending beyond mere transactions. The Fijian people value the time spent with others, and it is considered a precious commodity that should be cherished and nurtured.

On the other hand, in Finland, clock time is closely intertwined with academic time management. The Finnish education system places a high emphasis on efficiency and productivity, and students are expected to adhere to strict schedules and deadlines. Time is viewed as a finite resource that must be allocated strategically to maximize learning outcomes. Students are trained to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively, often sacrificing leisure and personal interests to achieve academic success.

Despite these differences, both Fiji and Finland demonstrate the multifaceted nature of clock time. In Fiji, time is valued not only for its economic implications but also for its cultural and social significance. The Fijian people prioritize the cultivation of relationships and the celebration of communal events, which are deeply intertwined with the rhythms of the clock. Time is seen as a means of fostering community and promoting social cohesion.

Similarly, in Finland, clock time is recognized as a tool for achieving academic excellence. However, it is also valued for its potential to promote personal growth and well-being. Finland's emphasis on leisure time and the importance of self-care contribute to a healthy work-life balance, which is seen as a key component of overall well-being.

In conclusion, by comparing the worth of the while in Fiji and Finland, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse values that clock time can express. Time is not merely a resource to be managed or conserved but rather a multifaceted entity that can signify and measure a wide range of other values. Through the exploration of these comparative case studies, we can reevaluate our attitudes towards time and recognize its potential to serve as a vehicle for promoting social cohesion, personal growth, and well-being. As we navigate the complexities of our modern lives, it is important to cultivate a sense of appreciation for the value of time and to find ways to utilize it in ways that align with our deepest values and aspirations.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197267486