This assignment will Discuss and compare two theories Marxism and Functionalism to make sense of the society and sport in England in the 21st century highlighting the benefits and problems. theories can help make sense of sport in England in

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Sport and Society

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By Josh Stone


Contents Page

Page 3 - Introduction

Page 3 Introduction to Marxism and Functionalism

Page 3-5 - Discussion and comparison of how the Marxist and Functionalist                                theories can help make sense of sport in England in the 21st Century

Page 5-6 - Conclusion

Page 7 - Reference List


This assignment will Discuss and compare two theories Marxism and Functionalism to make sense of the society and sport in England in the 21st century highlighting the benefits and problems.

Both of the sociological perspectives are sets of ideas trying to provide explanations for the human society and how it operates (Coakley 2004). According to Giddens (2001) Marxism and Functionalism are related to a structural view of sociology and observable patterns within societies shape individuals as to whom they are and whom they may become. The view of society belongs to the macro perspective of sociology and therefore looks at the society as a whole. The macro perspective has large scale principles. The principles cover family, education, religion as well as a historical process of social life examining interdependent social institutions (Dunning, 1999).

Marxism is an interpretation of the thoughts by Karl Marx (1813 – 1883) a German social theorist and political revolutionist. He believed that the idea of ‘class struggle’ played a major role in the society and development of it. The working class who whom, Marx believed made the wealth of society, (Dunning, Maguire & Pearton, 1993) and the downfall of the bourgeoisie or capitalist. Coakley (2004) states that well established capitalist societies can only have change if the people without the power realise that change is needed. This ideology can be related to sport due to the working class not being able to afford a ticket because of the bourgeoisie want to make more money from the proletariat (Jarve, 2006).

In contrast a functionalist perspective believes in consensus within society. Emile Durkheim 1858-1917) a French sociologist is often related to the thoughts of Functionalism (Coakley & Dunning, 2004). Durkheim used analogies to explain society as a whole. Within society it is vital all parts work together. These maintaining parts can also be named as basic community needs or according to Haralambaros and Holborn (2000) functional prerequisites.

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To ensure society is maintained and works efficiently common sense and values such as democracy, equality, morals and opportunities are in place and together it ensures society is held in place. This collective conscience is then transmitted through large-scale units where all individuals in society have shared goals as well as social connections between the individuals are promoted (Coakley and Dunning, 2004).

According to Coakley (2001) the relationship between sport and society in a Marxist view

is never set once and for all, due to the changes of interests in the various groups of societies, as it based ...

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