The main emphasis of this text is the relationship between sport and the social context in which it exists. Thus the sociology of sport is introduced. Each chapter focuses on a particular issue, such as sport in the economy, violent behaviour, gender relations, and intergroup relations, which examines the subject of racism in sport. The text also examines the relationship between sport and the mass media, covering not only the ways in which media affects society's view of sport and athletes, but also how sport has affected the workings of the media. The role sport will play in the 21st century is also considered. Sport and religion are compared as social institutions, which highlights the unifying role that sport can play in society. In this edition gender issues have been expanded to provide a view of the role that gender plays in all aspects of sport and society. There is also expanded coverage of the relationship between sport and the economy, and sport and politics.