| Description |
1 online resource (xii, 323 pages) |
| Contents |
Introduction: A grandstand view at the Cotswold Olimpicks -- Reaching for the heavens : a (very) brief history of religion and sport -- A question of sport : sport in contemporary society -- 1851 and all that : losing my religion? -- Play and sport : initial theological explorations -- "A matter of life and death?" : playing and winning -- "To boldly go" : sport as divine encounter? -- Conclusion: "The theology behind all cultural expressions." |
| Summary |
In The Games People Play, Robert Ellis constructs a theology around the global cultural phenomenon of modern sport, paying particular attention to its British and American manifestations. Using historical narrative and social analysis to enter the debate on sport as religion, Ellis shows that modern sport may be said to have taken on some of the functions previously vested in organized religion. Through biblical and theological reflection, he presents a practical theology of sport's appeal and value, with special attention to the theological concept of transcendence. Throughout, he draws on original empirical work with sports participants and spectators. The Games People Play addresses issues often considered problematic in theological discussions of sport such as gender, race, consumerism, and the role of the modern media, as well as problems associated with excessive competition and performance-enhancing substances. As Ellis explains, "Sporting journalists often use religious language in covering sports events. Salvation features in many a headline, and talk of moments of redemption is not uncommon. Perhaps, somewhere beyond the cliched hyperbole, there is some theological truth in all this after all." |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references (pages 291-308) and indexes |
| Notes |
Print version record |
| Subject |
Sports -- Religious aspects.
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Sports -- Moral and ethical aspects
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Competition (Psychology)
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GAMES -- Gambling -- Sports.
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SPORTS & RECREATION -- Business Aspects.
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SPORTS & RECREATION -- Essays.
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SPORTS & RECREATION -- History.
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SPORTS & RECREATION -- Reference.
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TRAVEL -- Special Interest -- Sports.
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Competition (Psychology)
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Sports -- Moral and ethical aspects
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Sports -- Religious aspects
|
| Form |
Electronic book
|
| ISBN |
9780718843243 |
|
071884324X |
|
9781630873844 |
|
1630873845 |
|
