Course Description

Central themes within the field of ‘sport and society’ will be approached in the light of sociological concepts and perspectives. The following themes will be discussed, among others: sport and the media, the development of modern sports, education and sport, sport and nationalism, sport and health, sport and the body, politics and sport, and gender and sport.

• Introduction: an orientation on how and why sport as a social phenomenon may be described and explained through the use of various social-science concepts, perspectives and theories.
• The distinctive nature of sport: a discussion of how the characteristics of various sports are expressed through activities, organisational forms and sports facilities.
• Sport and other institutions: an analysis of the relationship of sport to education, politics and market forces, both nationally and internationally.

Assessment Methods

Student mid-term group project with presentation (pass/fail). Compulsory attendance during all presentations.

Individual written examination, 6 hours. Graded marks.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean