Sport and Society in the Global Age

'Extremely accessible and theoretically sophisticated, this book beautifully accomplishes three tasks at once: it shows that sports are inevitably related to the social world, places sports in their broader global but also local contexts, and advocates for a more just world of sports. This is a must read for any student of sociology and sports.' - Francesco Duina,Professor of Sociology, Bates College, USA 'Comprehensive, accessible and insightful - Sport and Society in the Global Age presents compelling analysis and case studies for any reader wanting to understand why sport matters in contemporary society.' - Brett Hutchins, Co-Director of the Research Unit in Media Studies,Monash University, Australia 'As sport continues to grow, both in terms of public and commercial interest, it is vital that academic study keeps pace with new developments. This text provides both beginning students and the general reader a valuable introduction to contemporary research and debates about sport and societal processes, governance and global culture.' - John Horne, Professor of Sport and Sociology, University of Central Lancashire, UK 'This textbook brings a studied sociological imagination to sport on both the street corner and theglobal stage. Clearly argued and structured, it invites readers to embrace sport as a compelling object of lively social inquiry.' - David Rowe,Professorin the Centre for Cultural Research, University of Western Sydney, Australia 'There is no doubt at all that this is an excellent book...when one enjoys a book so much, one can be confident of its quality and utility for students and tutors alike...It has already become essential reading on my courses' - John Kelly, University of Edinburgh, UK

From play and participation to fandom and social action, sport forms a huge part of our daily lives. Encompassing current topics such as e-gaming, racism and the 'cyborg' athlete, this clear and concise text allows students to engage with the social processes, regulation and cultures of sport in a global age.Are sports influenced by their social context? Can sport influence the social world? And how is sport changing in our increasingly globalized society? This thought-provoking text explores these questions and introduces key debates in the sociology of sport. Uncovering the power dynamics within sport and bringing this everyday topic under a sociological lens, the book: - Explores hot topics and contemporary controversies, such as e-gaming, fan violence and sex testing - Examines the central role of technology and the media in how sport is consumed, represented and played - Discusses a wide range of thinkers, from Gramsci to Castells - Reflects on developments in sport at local, global and national levels With clearly explained theory and vibrant case examples, this text shows how we engage with sport in social, political, cultural and economic terms. It is an indispensable text for students across the social sciences studying sports.