Philosophical foundation of hospitality: still searching?

To explore and critically evaluate the work of Jacques Derrida and other writers in philosophy and postcolonial theory, in order to identify a philosophical foundation for the emergent paradigm of hospitality studies. Hospitality is no longer considered as being only synonymous with hospitality management and the hospitality industry. The phenomenon of hospitality is becoming a recognized field of study in its own right and Lashley et al. (2007) argue that hospitality research has gained a more multidisciplinary perspective. Although the emergent paradigm of hospitality studies does not have a coherent philosophical foundation, the writings of Derrida on hospitality seem to be influential. Therefore this paper explores Derrida's contribution, along with other writers in philosophy and postcolonial theory, who are either writing in the field or have developed his works.