Research
Our aims, objectives and key areas of research.
Aims and objectives
We seek to understand sport and its significance in various societies from the perspective of improving sport in ways that critical researchers view as ‘improvement’. We also focus on analysing the significance of sport as a part of society from the perspective of improving society in ways that align with a critical assessment of society. This includes challenging some commonly held views around the purpose and use of sport and its relationship with societies.
We seek to transform understanding of societies in relation to sport wherever possible. Governments in many countries around the world view sport as a way to serve agendas such as physical activity for health, national prestige and unity, urban regeneration, international relations and legacy. While sport is valuable for some or all of these agendas, it's important to critically assess sport's roles and society’s moral obligations.
Key areas of research
- (Alleged) legacies of sport
- Sport, empire and imperialism
- Sport in Asia Pacific society and culture
- Major and mega sport events
- Sport and social identities (gender, (dis)ability, ‘race’, class)
- Scottish policy and sport
- Media representation of sport
- Military-civil relations and sport
- ‘Sectarianism’ and sport
- Sport diplomacy and global politics
- Sport tourism
Further information
For more detailed information about our research, please go to our Members page where you can access members’ profiles detailing their research.