The Darker Side of Dark Tourism: An Authenticity Perspective

Abstract

This study examines content of dark tourism websites in the US. The purpose is to position the dark tourism sites on Stone's spectrum and identify the type of authenticity promoted by different dark tourism suppliers. Also, the intention is to discuss ramifications of the authenticity stance pursued by dark sites in the context of deviant leisure. The results of this study make an important contribution to existing literature by examining the dark tourism spectrum from an authenticity perspective. They also offer important implications to dark tourism site managers. In knowing where their site falls on the dark tourism spectrum and the type of authenticity it communicates, they can have a better understanding of how to market themselves in an ethical manner.