Chapter Outline
About This Book
About This Chapter
Defining Culture and Society
Defining Sports
A Traditional Definition of Sports
An Alternative Approach to Defining Sports
REFLECT ON SPORTS: Sports as Contested Activities
What Is the Sociology of Sport?
Differences Between Sociology and Psychology of Sport
Using the Sociology of Sport Controversies Created by the Sociology of Sport
BREAKING BARRIERS: Cultural Barriers: Aren’t We Athletes?
Different Approaches in the Sociology of Sport
Why Study Sports in Society?
Sports Are Given Special Meaning in People’s Lives
REFLECT ON SPORTS: The Body is More than Physical: Sports Influence Meanings Given to the Body
Sports Are Tied to Important Ideas and Beliefs in Many Cultures
Sports Are Connected to Major Spheres of Social Life
What Is the Current Status of the Sociology of Sport?
Summary: Why Study the Sociology of Sport?