Understanding Sport

Now in its second edition, Understanding Sport offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the dynamic interplay between sport and contemporary society. Drawing on a blend of historical, sociological, political, and cultural perspectives, Kath Woodward, Garry Whannel, Alan Tomlinson, and John Horne critically examine how sport functions both as an agent of change and as a reflection of wider socio-cultural shifts. The text navigates through pivotal themes such as theoretical debate, media influence, bodily representation, political engagement, commercialization, and globalization. Reflecting the profound transformations in global society since its initial release, this revised edition introduces entirely new sections addressing global changes, mega sporting events and venues, the regulation of athletic bodies, and research methodologies. Each chapter is designed with reflective review questions and concise further-reading guides, ensuring that Understanding Sport remains an indispensable resource for courses exploring the intersections of sport with society, social theory, and contemporary cultural issues.