Previous ed.: 2000.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 465-480) and index.

This book looks at sport not just as recreation, but as an integral part of contemporary culture, with connections to industry, commerce and politics. It explores the history and theories of sport, and touches on more controversial issues. Ellis Cashmore's unique, multidisciplinary introduction to sport studies is completely revised, updated and enhanced to reflect the changing character of contemporary sport. Among the questions addressed in this newfourth edition, Cashmore discusses: * cyborgization - will the human body be re-designed to meet athletic needs just as cosmetic surgery has enabled the re-design of bodies to suit aesthetic preferences?* nature or nurture - have advances in genetic science solved the age-old question of whether great athletes are born or made, and how does this affect our understanding of competition?* masculinities - does masculine power still dominate and, if not, what does this reveal about men in sports? Already established as a standard text, Cashmore's challenging approach to the study of sport is now updated to include new chapters on 'The Mind of the Athlete' (a probe into the psychological qualities and processes that separate winners from also-rans), and 'The Rise And Rise Of Celebrities' (investigating the rise of celebrity culture and its effect on the status of athletes). Original and revealing, this updated edition continues to provide a comprehensive investigation into the changing character of sport, and is essential reading for undergraduates of sociology and sports studies.

Description based on print version record.