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Sports and Society

Orin Starn

Sports play a giant role in contemporary society worldwide. But few of us pause to think about the larger questions of money, politics, race, sex, culture, and commercialization that surround sports everywhere. This course draws on the tools of anthropology, sociology, history, and other disciplines to give you new perspectives on the games we watch and play. It's the new and improved version of Professor Orin Starn's original "Sports and Society" for Coursera, which drew more than 40,000 students. We will focus on both popular sports like soccer (or “football,” as anyone outside America calls it), basketball, and baseball, and also lesser-known ones like mountain-climbing and fishing. You will never watch or think about sports in the same way again.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started! Games, Play, and Sports
Globalization, Nationalism, and the Politics of Sports
Race, Cultural Identity, and the Sports World
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Tailored for those interested in the sociological and cultural significance of sports
Suitable for both beginners and those with some background in sports sociology
Taught by an experienced anthropologist with expertise in sports culture
Course materials include a mix of videos, readings, and discussion forums
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of sports in society
May require additional reading or research for a deeper understanding

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Sports' profound societal impact

According to learners, the Sports and Society course offers thought-provoking insights into the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of sports. Many found the professor engaging and the broad range of topics fascinating, noting that the course changed how they view sports. The workload is generally manageable, with relevant assignments that reinforce learning. However, some reviews suggest that certain materials might feel slightly dated, and the required readings can occasionally be challenging or dense. Overall, students highly recommend the course for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of sports' significant place in society.
The course pace and assignments are reasonable.
"Found the workload very manageable for a MOOC while still providing good depth."
"The readings were relevant and helped deepen understanding without being overwhelming."
"Assignments reinforced the concepts discussed in the lectures effectively."
Offers a new lens to view sports.
"This course completely changed how I watch and think about sports and their role in the world."
"It makes you question everything you thought you knew about the games we play and watch."
"Highly recommend taking this course if you want to challenge your assumptions about sports."
Covers diverse aspects of sports and society.
"Covers a wide range of topics, from race and gender to politics and the business of sports."
"Found the sections on globalization and nationalism particularly interesting and well-covered."
"The course connects sports to so many different important aspects of society and culture."
The instructor is highly knowledgeable and engaging.
"Professor Starn is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the subject matter. His enthusiasm is contagious."
"His lectures were always engaging and easy to follow, making complex ideas accessible."
"Really enjoyed the professor's style and depth of understanding."
Some course material may feel slightly dated.
"A few examples felt a bit old; the course could benefit from incorporating more recent case studies and events."
"Some discussions might be enhanced by including newer data and contemporary events in sports."
"While the core ideas are timeless, some of the statistics and references felt a little dated."
Required readings can be academically dense.
"Some of the required readings were quite challenging and academic, requiring significant effort."
"Needed to spend extra time on certain articles to fully grasp the complex arguments presented."
"While relevant to the topics, the readings weren't always easy to get through for a general audience."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Sports and Society with these activities:
Review basic principles of sociology and anthropology
Strengthen your comprehension of the social and cultural aspects of sports, which will enhance your ability to analyze sports-related topics in the course.
Browse courses on Sociology
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks from previous sociology or anthropology courses
  • Read articles or watch videos on key sociological and anthropological concepts
Watch documentaries on sports history
Gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and evolution of sports, which will enhance your appreciation for the topics covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Research and identify documentaries that align with the course topics
  • Take notes on key concepts and ideas presented in the documentaries
Read 'Sports in Society: Issues and Controversies' by Jay Coakley
Gain insights into the broader social and cultural significance of sports, complementing the course's exploration of specific topics.
View Sports in Society? Issues and Controvers:ies on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and ideas
  • Participate in online discussions or write a review to share your understanding and engage with others
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss sports controversies with classmates
Engage in critical thinking and discussion with peers to explore different perspectives on controversial issues in sports.
Show steps
  • Identify a recent or historical sports controversy
  • Research and gather information about the controversy
  • Organize a group discussion with classmates to share perspectives and engage in debate
Create a playlist of sports-related songs
Express your understanding and appreciation for sports through music, reinforcing the emotional and cultural impact of sports.
Show steps
  • Research and select songs that capture the essence of different sports or sports-related themes
  • Create a playlist on a music streaming platform and share it with peers or on social media
Compile a list of sports organizations and resources
Expand your knowledge of the sports industry and gain access to valuable resources for further exploration.
Show steps
  • Research and identify reputable sports organizations and resources
  • Create a spreadsheet or database to organize the information
Contribute to open-source sports projects
Apply your knowledge and skills by contributing to open-source projects related to sports, enhancing your practical understanding and building your portfolio.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source sports projects on platforms like GitHub
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute

Career center

Learners who complete Sports and Society will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sports Historian
Sports Historians research and document the history of sports, providing insights into its evolution and cultural significance. By gaining a solid understanding of the historical context and development of sports from this course, you can contribute valuable knowledge to the field of sports history.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Historian
Sports Anthropologist
Sports Anthropologists study the cultural and social aspects of sports. This course in Sports and Society provides a foundation in anthropological research methods and theories, enabling you to explore the diverse ways in which sports shape and reflect societies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Anthropologist
Sports Sociologist
Sports Sociologists examine the social impact of sports, including issues of race, gender, class, and inequality. By taking this course, you can gain insights into the power dynamics and social structures within the sports world, providing valuable perspectives for research and advocacy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Sociologist
Sports Lawyer
Sports Lawyers represent clients in legal matters related to sports, including contract disputes, player rights, and league regulations. By taking this course, you can gain insights into the legal framework governing sports, which is essential for providing expert legal guidance in this specialized field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Lawyer
Sports Marketing Manager
Sports Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns for sports teams, leagues, and brands. With a foundation in the social and cultural aspects of sports provided by this course, you can better understand the interests of athletes and fans and align marketing efforts accordingly. This knowledge is key for effective sports marketing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Marketing Manager
Sports Journalist
Sports Journalists inform the public about sporting events, athletes, and related issues. A strong foundation in the social and cultural aspects of sports gained from this course will allow you to provide informed and engaging coverage of sports-related stories.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Journalist
Sports Administrator
Sports Administrators manage the operations and business aspects of sports organizations. A course in Sports and Society will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, including its financial, legal, and marketing dimensions, which is crucial for effective sports administration.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Administrator
Sports Data Analyst
Sports Data Analysts use data to improve athletic performance, optimize training, and gain insights into game strategies. The course in Sports and Society provides an understanding of the role of data and analytics in sports, enabling you to develop the skills to analyze and interpret sports-related data effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Data Analyst
Sports Broadcaster
Sports Broadcasters describe and provide commentary on sporting events, which requires a deep understanding of the game and its cultural significance. This course in Sports and Society explores the history, politics, and social impact of sports, which can enhance your ability to deliver informed and engaging commentary.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Broadcaster
Sports Facility Manager
Sports Facility Managers oversee the planning, construction, and maintenance of sports facilities. By taking this course, you can gain insights into the design, management, and safety considerations of sports facilities, enabling you to create and maintain high-quality sports venues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Facility Manager
Sports Nutritionist
Sports Nutritionists optimize the dietary needs of athletes to enhance their performance and recovery. An understanding of the physiological and metabolic demands of various sports gained from this course can help you provide tailored nutrition plans and advice to athletes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Nutritionist
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Physicians specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries and illnesses related to sports. By gaining insights into the physiological and psychological aspects of sports from this course, you can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the unique health needs of athletes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Equipment Developer
Sports Equipment Developers design and engineer equipment for athletes and sports enthusiasts. The course in Sports and Society provides insights into the biomechanics and physics of sports, which can enhance your understanding of how sports equipment impacts performance and safety.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Equipment Developer
Sports Psychologist
Sports Psychologists help athletes improve their mental health and performance. The course in Sports and Society provides insights into the psychological aspects of sports, including motivation, teamwork, and dealing with pressure. This knowledge can enrich your ability to provide effective support to athletes facing various psychological challenges.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Psychologist
Sports Agent
Sports Agents primarily represent athletes in contract negotiations and other legal matters. A course in Sports and Society will provide you with insights on the business landscape of sports and help you understand the role of sports agents within it. This course could help you develop a foundation for working with athletes and sports-related contracts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Agent

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Sports and Society.
Cover image
Understanding the Olympics
Save
Textbook commonly used in academic institutions that introduces the topic of sport and society and explores the cultural, political, and economic aspects of sports.
Understanding the Olympics
Kindle Edition
$$
Understanding the Olympics
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Soccernomics (2022 World Cup Edition)
Save
Offers a global perspective on the history, culture, and politics of soccer. It examines the game's impact on society, from its role in national identity to its commercialization.
Soccernomics (2022 World Cup Edition): Why European...
Paperback
$
Soccernomics (2022 World Cup Edition): Why European...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The International Politics of Sport in the...
Save
Valuable reference tool for anyone interested in the study of sport and politics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, including topics such as the history of sport and politics, the sociology of sport and politics, and the economics of sport and politics.
The International Politics of Sport in the...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Understanding Sport
Save
Explores the relationship between sport and social theory. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the theoretical underpinnings of the study of sport and society.
Understanding Sport: A socio-cultural analysis...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Ethics of Sport
Save
Explores the ethical and philosophical issues surrounding sports. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the ethical dimensions of sports.
Fair Play: The Ethics of Sport
Paperback
$$
The Ethics of Sport: What Everyone Needs to Know®
Paperback
$
Fair Play: The Ethics of Sport
Paperback
$$
The Ethics of Coaching Sports: Moral, Social and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Game On!
Save
Provides an in-depth look at the history of football and the innovations that have changed the game over time. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the sport and its evolution.
Game On! (Game On, 1)
Paperback
$$
The Greatest Stories Ever Played: Video Games and...
Hardcover
$$
Game On!: Video Game History from Pong and Pac-Man...
Kindle Edition
$
The Greatest Stories Ever Played: Video Games and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
EBOOK: Sports in Society
Save
Provides an overview of the social and cultural issues surrounding sports.
EBOOK: Sports in Society (UK Higher Education...
Kindle Edition
$$$
The Worlds of Religion
Save
Provides an introduction to the study of sport and religion. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the relationship between sports and religion.
The Worlds of Religion
Paperback
Check
The Worlds of Religion
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introductory Psychology in Modules
Save
Explores the genetic basis of athleticism and the role of nature and nurture in shaping athletic success. It provides insights into topics such as the genetic lottery, the importance of training and environment, and the role of psychology in sports.
Introductory Psychology in Modules: Understanding...
Paperback
$$$
Introductory Psychology in Modules: Understanding...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Friday Night Lights (25th Anniversary Edition)
Save
Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the culture of high school football in America. It explores the pressures on players, coaches, and communities, and the role of sports in shaping lives.
Friday Night Lights (25th Anniversary Edition): A...
Paperback
$$
[Friday Night Lights, 25th Anniversary Edition: A...
Hardcover
$$
Friday Night Lights (25th Anniversary Edition): A...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Free to Judge
Save
Tells the story of how the Oakland Athletics used data analysis to revolutionize the way baseball is played. It offers insights into the role of technology in sports and the importance of understanding statistics.
Free to Judge: The Power of Campaign Money in...
Hardcover
$$
Free to Judge: The Power of Campaign Money in...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Via
Coursera
Institution
Duke University
Instructor
Orin Starn
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Tailored for those interested in the sociological and cultural significance of sports
Suitable for both beginners and those with some background in sports sociology
Taught by an experienced anthropologist with expertise in sports culture
Course materials include a mix of videos, readings, and discussion forums
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of sports in society
May require additional reading or research for a deeper understanding
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