This course is designed to provide a basic understanding of the social processes that explain the pervasiveness and appeal of sport in American culture. The course will allow students to develop an understanding of the effects of sport on behavior and lifestyles of active participants as well as those who are more passively involved. This is accomplished through investigation of historical developments and assessment of the interrelationships among sport, culture, and major social institutions such as family, business, education, politics, and religion.