The Power of Sport in American Culture

Have you ever wondered why sports are such a big deal in the United States?

Or why American’s don’t love futbol (soccer) as much as the rest of the world?

This course investigates the multi-billion dollar sports industry as a way to discern American cultural values. Themes we will explore:

-- Sports media’s glorification of sport

-- America’s religious-like fandom

-- The "sport as war" frame and the implications

-- Gender, racial, and political systems of power

This course will open your eyes to the power of sport as a cultural institution. You’ll analyze the discourses of sports culture and apply critical thinking to your personal experiences with sports. Whether you're a sports fanatic or a curious learner, this course will instill a deeper understanding of American values and how they play out on the field.