Sports in Irish Society

This course provides an understanding of sports in Irish culture, their historical context and the importance of Irish sporting bodies as ideological state apparatus. Discussions will consider sport as a reflection of early twentieth century Ireland through to a reflection of diverse and multicultural modern Ireland. Sports have been geographically bound and a signifier of one's identity in Ireland in terms of one's village, townland and county, and students will consider the possible effects of urbanization on sports and one's identity. Students delve into a wide variety of subjects that examine the interface between social structures, state and sporting organizations. Discussions in class will look at the role of education, volunteerism and globalization on sport spectatorship and participation.

Given the role of sport as one of Ireland's most influential state apparatus, focus will be placed on representation in Irish sports; the marginalization and homogenization of groups within sporting culture - based on gender, race, ethnicity and sexuality. Additionally, this course will analyze the current state of integrity in sports, including the use of drugs, the influence of gambling, gene manipulation, and biomedical enhancements.