Fifteenth International Conference on Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Abstract

In one lifestyle community, a ‘dirtbag’ is considered to be a person who is committed to a give lifestyle to the point of abandoning traditional employment and other societal norms in order to pursue said lifestyle. They are people that forsake the comforts of home and material belongings to pursue their passion. ‘Dirtbagging’ may include: (1) a lack of traditional employment, (2) alternative housing, (3) being semi-nomadic, (4) minimalism, and (5) a love of nature. Overall, the ‘Dirtbag Way’ is an alternative lifestyle that embraces simplicity and freedom. Sociologically, I am interested in what this means. Who are these ‘dirtbags?’ Why do they choose this particular lifestyle. What type of lifestyle might they be giving up and why? And what are the social implications of ‘dirtbagging?’