Sport in Society: Issues and Controversies

Written for students taking their first look at sports from a sociological perspective, this is a best-selling resource. Many issues are covered including competition in sports, deviance in sports, sports and politics, gender relations, aggression in sport and how coaches fit into sport.

• Chapter 1 The Sociology of Sport: What is it and Why study it?
• Chapter 2 Using Social Theories: What can they tell Us about Sports in Society?
• Chapter 3 A look at the past: Does it help us understand sports today?
• Chapter 4 Sports and Socialization: Who plays and What happens to them?
• Chapter 5 Sports and Children: Are organized programs worth the effort?
• Chapter 6 Deviance in Sports: Is it out of control?
• Chapter 7 Violence in Sports: How does it affect our lives?
• Chapter 8 Gender and Sports: Does Equity require ideological changes?
• Chapter 9 Race and Ethnicity: Are they important in sport?
• Chapter 10 Social Class: Do money and power matter in sports?
• Chapter 11 Sports and the economy: What are the characteristics of commercial sports?
• Chapter 12 Sport and the Media: Could they survive without each other?
• Chapter 13 Sports and Politics: How do Governments and Globalization influence sports?
• Chapter 14 Sports in High School and College: Do varsity programs contribute to education?
• Chapter 15 Sports and Religion: Is it a promising combination?
• Chapter 16: Sports in the future: What can we expect?