A Wider Social Role for Sport: Who's Keeping the Score?

This book provides a much-needed reflection on the evidence for the value of sport in society. Collating research from around the world, the book examines the political and historical context for sport development as part of wider social policy debates. Coalter outlines the the social problems that Governments seek to address through sport development, and examines the nature and the extent of the evidence for sport?s positive role in society. Drawing on over a decade of experience at the heart of the UK sport policy and research, and the unique evidence base he has developed, Coalter asks whether sport is fulfilling its potential. A range of social problems often stemming from social exclusion, are covered including obesity, crime, drug abuse, lack of community identity and lack of social cohesion. This book asks tough questions about the value of sport development for social change, marking a new maturity in the field. It should become a key title forall students and scholars in sports policy and development.

Fred Coalter is Professor of Sports Policy at the University of Stirling, UK.