of appropriate theory into my analysis .
Molly Russell
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an amateur as an individual who pursues a sport , study , or science as a pastime rather than a profession , one who lacks competence or experience in a vocation or the level preceding that of a professional ( Marriam-Webster , 2021 ). The importance of acknowledging this definition is that , in its most simplistic terms , the amateur is defined in its opposition to the professional . Specific lexis such as ‘ lacking in competence or experience ’ constructs the amateur as lesser in skill , practice , and ability . Professional is defined as an individual who obtains a career or livelihood from a specific profession ( often engaged with by amateurs ) by conforming to specific technical or ethical standards ( Marriam- Webster , 2021 ). These terminologies offer a simple introduction into the symbiotic relationship between the amateur and the professional , as each is defined in relation to the other . On closer study of the amateur , Stebbins ( 1997 , p . 583 ) argues
126 the concept can be further deconstructed into at least two broad groups . Once exposed to the professional standards of their chosen activity , individuals will either determine themselves as a part-time participant with no obligation or necessity to continue or face a notion of insufficiency , which triggers more fierce commitment and regulation to improve . Stebbins differentiates these individuals as amateurs and modern amateurs , noting that the modern amateur may continue to become a professional . Stebbins ’ work deconstructs the notion of the amateur and professional as binary opposites , acknowledging the different intentions of amateurs avoids oversimplification of the term and places the modern amateur as progressive of the amateur . The notion of the modern amateur illustrates the spectrum between amateurs and professionals , a complex space of continuously negotiated power , whereby amateurs may attempt to bridge the gap .
‘ Most simply , professionalism suggests performing a task