A-Level PE: Sport Society and Social Action Theory

Introduction

• Topic: Social Action Theory and its influence on sport
• Applicable to most exam boards, though focused on AQA PE
• Example contrast: Mob football (pre-1780) vs. modern inclusive football (e.g., Sweden vs. Holland)

Development of Football

• Transition from mob game to modern, respectable, global, and organized sport
• Influences: Middle class, public school boys, TV, businesses

Social Action Theory

• Explains societal and sport changes over time
• Belief: Individuals can influence societal change through their roles and interactions
• Without social action, sports like football might not have evolved from their original forms

Football Etiquette

• Example: Shaking referee's hand
• Origin: Muscular Christianity, Corinthian ethos of fair play from the 19th century
• Socialization: Teaches norms, values, and behaviors in society
• Importance of social action in shaping socialization

The Role of Individuals in Society

• Society is created and changed by interactions among individuals
• Not solely controlled by leaders, government, or wealth
• Examples: Suffragette movement, evolution of sport norms

Sport and Society

• Sport evolves alongside societal changes
• Historical influences: Violent mob football to respectable Victorian games to technology-driven sports
• "Progression": Developing towards a more advanced state

Social Factors Influencing Sport

• Class structure: Middle class involvement led to respectability and rule development
• Education: Public schools and secondary schools contributed to sport development

Interactionist Approach

• Study of individual behaviors within a society
• Impact of behaviors and attitudes on society
• Global differences influenced by local social action

Creativity and Society

• Society controls individuals but allows creativity (e.g., free speech, protests)
• Creativity influences societal perception and change

Interactionist Impact on Sport

• Formation of sports clubs through interactions of similar-minded individuals
• Continuous evolution of sports through member input
• Reflects democratic processes and less hierarchical structures
• Emphasis on community involvement in sport development

Conclusion

• Sport reflects societal norms and evolves through social action
• Importance of recognizing individual contributions and creativity in societal changes
• Encouragement to explore further A-Level PE resources and videos