Research Handbook on Sports and Society

Edited by Elizabeth C.J. Pike, Professor and Head of Sport, Health and Exercise, University of Hertfordshire, UK

This state-of-the-art Research Handbook provides a challenging and critical examination of the complex issues surrounding sports in contemporary societies. Featuring contributions from world-leading scholars, it focuses upon the impact of their research, together with significant social issues and controversies in sport.

‘As the social significance of sport seemingly grows unabated, an understanding of the issues affecting our diverse societies is essential. This Research Handbook draws together an internationally distinguished set of authors and brings these issues to life through a distinctive approach. By exploring the personal research journeys of researchers in the field, and the social activism which brings these issues to the forefront of public debate, the Research Handbook is set to become compulsory reading for students and researchers alike.’
– Dominic Malcolm, Loughborough University, UK

‘A recognised leader in the sociology of sport, Professor Elizabeth Pike offers us a scholarly collection that makes a strong and original contribution to the field. Drawing upon the expertise and versatility of both established and emerging scholars, the Research Handbook on Sports and Society is framed in relation to three key themes: scholarship, activism and impact. Overall, the topics covered are far ranging, examine some of the most important topics within contemporary sport, and, are addressed with critical theoretical analysis that provides readers with unique insights.’
– Steve Jackson, University of Otago, New Zealand