27764 Analysis of the Olympic Games

Subject level: Postgraduate

Handbook description

This subject provides students with knowledge and understanding of the Olympic Games phenomenon in general, and its impact on host cities and countries. It covers the history of the ancient Olympics; the origins and development of the modern Olympic Games; political dimensions, including examination of the Olympic Games under fascist, communist, and capitalist regimes; boycotts, terrorism and international politics; cultural, sociological and media aspects of the Games; the idea of the 'Olympism' – its origins, construction and cultural significance; social impacts of the Games in host communities; financing of the Olympic Games and their economic impact; the Games as a tourism phenomenon; political, social and economic analysis of hallmark events (festivals and major sporting events) in general; and issues facing the Olympic Games, such as drugs, discrimination and commercialisation.