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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.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/0e6vuk/sports
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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
Syllabus
Getting Started! Games, Play, and Sports
Globalization, Nationalism, and the Politics of Sports
Race, Cultural Identity, and the Sports World
Read more
Gender, Sexuality, and the Rise of Women's Sports
Why Do We Care So Much about Sports?
The Megabusiness of Sports
Outdoor Sports, Extreme Sports, and the Search for Adventure
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , 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
Save Sports and Society to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Engaging sports history
Learners say that this engaging course on sports history covers an array of topics from the history of professional sports to the intersection of sports and social justice movements. Lectures in this course are easy to follow and often include video. Reviewers commented on a sense of community from weekly hangouts with famous sports figures and opportunities for prizes.
Course dives deeply into the history of sports with a particular focus on professional sports in the US.
"The course covers every aspect on which the modern sports foundation have been laid"
"It was great going through historic moments such as the world war and black rights movement through the eyes of sports"
Course offered a sense of community through weekly hangouts and opportunities to win prizes.
"Makes you think of sports in a new and influential manner.."
"a new sport introduced & prizes every week and hangouts with famous guests"
"Brilliant course"
Top-rated course for its well-produced content and engaging approach to learning.
"Fantastic course with lots of information"
"the lectures are very easy on the eyes and ears"
"Professor Starn explains everything in a fun and interesting way"
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Review basic principles of sociology and anthropology
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
Engage in critical thinking and discussion with peers to explore different perspectives on controversial issues in sports.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Express your understanding and appreciation for sports through music, reinforcing the emotional and cultural impact of sports.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of the sports industry and gain access to valuable resources for further exploration.
Show steps
Show steps
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
Show steps
Apply your knowledge and skills by contributing to open-source projects related to sports, enhancing your practical understanding and building your portfolio.
Show steps
Show steps
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 Sociologist
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.
Sports Anthropologist
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.
Sports Historian
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.
Sports Lawyer
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.
Sports Administrator
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.
Sports Journalist
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.
Sports Marketing Manager
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.
Sports Broadcaster
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.
Sports Facility Manager
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.
Sports Data Analyst
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.
Sports Psychologist
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.
Sports Equipment Developer
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.
Sports Agent
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.
Sports Nutritionist
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.
Sports Medicine Physician
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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0e6vuk/sports
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.
Textbook commonly used in academic institutions that introduces the topic of sport and society and explores the cultural, political, and economic aspects of sports.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Provides an overview of the social and cultural issues surrounding sports.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0e6vuk/sports
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Institution
Duke University
Instructor
Orin Starn
Language
English
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Good to know
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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