From holocene to anthropocene: A spacetime perspective on the ontology,epistemology, and methodology of space tourism

Kang-Lin Peng, Myung Ja Kim, Zhilun Huang*, Ivan K.W. Lai, Xi Ji

Abstract

The rise and progression of space tourism has transformed the tourism paradigm. This study aims to systematically compare the fundamental differences between space tourism and terrestrial tourism in terms of ontology, epistemology, and methodology, to clarify the theoretical boundaries of space tourism and identify future research directions. A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating the systematic review technique with the focus group and the Delphi method to develop a cohesive conceptual framework. Two systematic reviews synthesized evidence from the literature on space tourism compared to terrestrial tourism, utilizing the Web of Science and Scopus databases. The Focus group and Delphi method were used to iteratively consult interdisciplinary experts to reach a consensus on the ontological, epistemological, and methodological distinctions between space and terrestrial tourism. Ultimately, this study developed a nine-dimensional integrated conceptual typology for space and terrestrial tourism studies. The typology framework combines essential philosophical elements, including ontology, epistemology, and methodology, with theoretical dimensions encompassing the current, incremental, and innovative components of the two types of tourism, into a unified analytical matrix. This study addresses the philosophical comparative research gap between space and terrestrial tourism through theoretical deconstruction, multiple methods, and proposition construction. It advances the evolution of the spacetime paradigm of tourism science, providing theoretical foundations and practical guidance for academia to navigate tourism reform in the new space era.

Keywords: space tourism; ontology-epistemology-methodology; spacetime; systematic literature review; focus group; delphi method

Peng, K. L., Kim, M. J., Huang, Z., Lai, I. K., & Ji, X. (2025). From holocene to anthropocene: A spacetime perspective on the ontology, epistemology, and methodology of space tourism. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management, 101304.