Power at Play: Sports and the Problem of Masculinity

by Michael A. Messner

Overview

Based on interviews with a diverse group of former high school, college, and professional athletes, Power at Play examines the important role sports play in defining masculinity for American men.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780807041055
Publisher:	Beacon Press
Publication date:	04/30/1995
Series:	Men and Masculinity
Edition description:	REISSUE
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Michael A. Messneris associate professor of sociology at the University of Southern California.

Editorial Reviews

"An examination of the heartland of masculinity. . . Power at Play tells us about [sport's] compelling allure, its ability to bestow self-confidence and social status. . . but also [about] the dark side of the athletic subculture. A work of clarity and insight." —Gender and Society

"An eye opener about sport and its meaning. . . Loaded with valuable insights." —San Francisco Chronicle

"The first examination of American jock culture that makes sense to me . . . Parents of young kids may find it especially interesting." —Whole Earth Review

From the Publisher

Messner (sociology, Univ. of Southern California) attempts to resolve the role of sports in male society. The author, who has co-edited other volumes on men's studies, examines the effects of athletics on male development from boyhood through midlife. In search of common bonds, he interviews 30 former athletes. By analyzing early experiences, careers, and post-sports lives, Messner identifies how each male athlete's identity was molded and how each used his participation to attain goals. Appendixes offer details of each athlete's careers and backgrounds (racial, social, and economic) and a synopsis of the interview process. This engrossing volume will appeal more to sociologists than sports fans.-- Jeffrey Gay, Bridgewater P.L., Mass.

Library Journal

Messner interviews former professional and amateur athletes to explore how their sports experiences defined their views of themselves as men, paying particular attention to the racism, sexism, and homophobia that seem to pervade the world of organized sports. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews