Toward an Applied Sociology of Sport

Abstract

The development of the academic sub-discipline sociology of sport over the past 15 years, while noteworthy in many respects, has been characterized by a noticeable disinterest in an applied perspective. In this essay, arguments which support the initiation of such a research paradigm are juxtaposed with a discussion of selected counterforces which make such a possibility problematic. Specifically, it is suggested that (1) the "court ship" of sociology, (2) the professional training which prospective sport sociologists presently receive, and (3) the value system and style of scholarship extant within the oc cupational subculture of academic sport sociologists collectively serve the latent func tion of discouraging a serious commitment to an action-oriented, applied perspective. The future development of an applied sociology of sport is further discussed in relationship to the accompanying adoption of a more humanistic commitment, one which welcomes speculation, prediction and theorizing about the future. It is further argued that if an ap plied perspective is to truly emerge from sociology of sport, then alternative work roles will need to be developed to guide the efforts of those sport sociologists so inclined. Last ly, specific suggestions in the form of a generalized curriculum are offered for the formal training of applied sport sociologists.