Internet Penetration and Leisure Activity Entropy: A Macro-Micro Integrated Analysis

TL;DR

This study examines how internet use affects leisure diversity at both individual and regional levels in China.

Contribution

It introduces a macro-micro integrated framework using entropy theory to analyze internet penetration's nonlinear effects on leisure.

Findings

Micro-level internet use increases individual leisure diversity, especially for learning-oriented activities.

Macro-level effects show an inverted U-shape, mediated by micro-level internet use.

Education, income, and internet penetration are key factors shaping leisure diversity.

Abstract

Amid debates over internet penetration’s impact on leisure diversity—“macro-level entropy increase” vs. “micro-level entropy reduction”—this study explores their intrinsic link by introducing Shannon’s information entropy theory and constructing a three-tier framework (“micro-individual decision-making—macro-regional growth—macro–micro linkage”). Using microdata from the China General Social Survey and macro data from the China Economic and Financial Research Database, we adopt a multi-method approach (benchmark regression, mediation/nonlinear analysis) to test hypotheses. Key findings: micro-level internet penetration boosts individual leisure entropy; macro-level impact may follow an inverted U-shape, mediated by micro-level internet use; the entropy-increasing effect is strongest for learning-oriented leisure, weakest for social-oriented leisure; education, income, and internet penetration are core configurational conditions. This study contributes a quantitative leisure diversity framework, an integrated macro–micro model, and insights into the nonlinearities of internet penetration.

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