Sociology is central to the study of sport in higher education. This reader-friendly textbook, aimed at all those on sport-related degrees and foundation degrees, introduces core themes, such as power, diversity and mediation, and relates them to major contemporary social issues such as commercialisation and globalisation. Special emphasis is given throughout to examples drawn from the UK and to the significance of the 2012 Olympics. Theoretical explanation is fully supported by case studies, practical and reflective exercises and guidance on further study. This second edition has been fully revised to provide enhanced discussion of the research literature, including a focus on key papers, and updated examples from the UK and Ireland. It includes a substantial new chapter on sport and the community.