Sports and Society

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/sports-society

Introduction

**Course Review: Sports and Society on Coursera** In today's fast-paced world, sports enjoy an undeniable presence, shaping cultures, societies, and economies. While millions engage with various sports on a daily basis, few take a moment to reflect on the intricate web of issues that surround this beloved realm. Enter the engaging Coursera course titled "Sports and Society," led by esteemed Professor Orin Starn, which delves into the multifaceted relationship between sports and societal constructs. ### Course Overview The "Sports and Society" course offers a comprehensive lens through which to examine the social, political, and cultural ramifications of sports in contemporary society. It employs an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from anthropology, sociology, history, and more. This revamped version of Professor Starn's original course has already attracted over 40,000 students, signaling its relevance and appeal. ### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Getting Started! Games, Play, and Sports**: The course opens with a foundational overview, exploring the essential differences and similarities between games, play, and sports. It sets the stage for deeper dives into the numerous facets of sports as a cultural artifact. 2. **Globalization, Nationalism, and the Politics of Sports**: This module examines the interplay between sports and national identity, addressing how sports can foster solidarity but also divisiveness. It highlights major global sporting events and their political undertones. 3. **Race, Cultural Identity, and the Sports World**: This crucial segment explores the intersection of race and sports, prompting discussions about representation, inequality, and the role sports play in cultural narratives. 4. **Gender, Sexuality, and the Rise of Women's Sports**: Here, the course tackles issues of gender and sexuality within the sports arena, focusing on the evolution of women's sports, gender equity, and the ongoing fight for visibility and recognition. 5. **Why Do We Care So Much about Sports?**: This thought-provoking module encourages participants to reflect on their emotional connections to sports and the psychological and societal functions sports fulfill. 6. **The Megabusiness of Sports**: A look at the commercialization of sports, this module dissects the economic implications of sports, examining how media, sponsorships, and governance impact sports on all levels. 7. **Outdoor Sports, Extreme Sports, and the Search for Adventure**: The course concludes with a discussion on the rise of outdoor and extreme sports, exploring their appeal and cultural significance in the context of adventure and individualism. ### Course Experience and Recommendation Engaging with "Sports and Society" is not only an educational experience but also a journey of self-reflection and social critique. The course is rich with multimedia resources, including video lectures, scholarly articles, and interactive discussions. This combination not only enriches the learning experience but also encourages learners to apply theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios. Professor Starn's teaching style is approachable and thought-provoking, encouraging students to challenge their assumptions and engage actively with the material. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a social scientist, or someone looking to understand cultural phenomena from a new perspective, this course will resonate with you. I highly recommend "Sports and Society" on Coursera for anyone interested in understanding the broader implications of sports in our daily lives. It is a course that expands your worldview, encouraging critical thinking and introspection while fostering meaningful dialogue about the role of sports in our society. Whether you're seeking personal enrichment or aiming to apply these insights professionally, this course is a worthwhile investment in your education and understanding of contemporary issues.

Syllabus

Getting Started! Games, Play, and Sports