The place of sport within popular culture has become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society, effected by the rise of the celebrity athlete, the political positioning of sporting organizations and the persistent nature of sport media and news. Popular culture maintains incredible influence in contemporary
society, impacting what we wear, watch, consume and participate in. It is intimately and personally connected to people’s opinions and understandings, working to influence stereotypes, attitudes, practices and beliefs. Fundamentally, popular culture has mass accessibility and appeal. This course is designed to critically examine the contemporary interrelationship between sport, popular culture and politics, paying close attention to the role of the media and structures of power, in creating these conversations. Although this course will draw on your familiarity with sport and popular culture, we will approach these subjects from a scholarly perspective. Drawing on theoretical positions in critical cultural studies and political studies, we will examine the role of sport in shaping and reinforcing cultural norms, values and stories. With the rise of various contemporary social and political issues playing out through sports in the sphere of popular culture, we will discuss and engage with a number of different subjects, so we can better understand how sport, and popular culture, have shaped our social and political lives.

NOT OFFERED IN 2026-27