A refreshing and necessary addition to the existing literature, this text is accessible yet at the same time rigorous in its coverage. It is designed to stimulate and guide students toward a greater understanding of the phenomenon of sport in today's society. Understanding Sport will introduce students to the central elements of a sociological and cultural analysis of sport. Its coverage is specific to sport in modern British society. Key features include: up-to-date coverage of key socio-cultural issues; suggested further reading, to expand students understanding of the topics introduced; end-of-chapter essay topics and questions, to help students consolidate their knowledge; extensive reference lists and a thematic index, to direct students and lecturers toward further research materials. Written by three highly respected authorities in the field, Understanding Sport will be an invaluable tool for those studying and teaching sport studies at the introductory level. J. Horne, Department of Leisure Studies, Heriot-Watt University, UK, A. Tomlinson, Chelsea School of Physical Education, Sports Science, Dance & Leisure, University of Brighton, UK, G

Table of Contents

Introduction. Industrial society, social change and sports culture. Case studies in the growth of modern sports. Interpreting the growth of sports - debates in history and theory. Social stratification and social division in sport. Socialisation - social interaction and development. Representation, sport and the media. Sport, the state and politics. Sport and work. Commercialisation and the political economy of sport. Glossary. Index.

Author Biography

John Horne is in the Deparment of Physical Education, Sport and Leisure Studies, Universtiy of Edinburgh. Alan Tomlinson is at the Chelsea School, University of Brighton. Garry Whannel is at the Centre for Sport Development Research, School of Sport Studies, Roehampton Institute London.