Golden State Today

Sociologist Harry Edwards recently shared his insights on the role of sport in shaping society during a discussion at UC Berkeley. Edwards, a renowned sports activist and UC Berkeley professor emeritus of sociology, emphasized the potential for sport to influence societal perceptions and relationships.

Speaking at a campus event sponsored by the Institute for the Study of Societal Issues and Cal Athletics, Edwards highlighted the transformative power of sport, stating, "You can change society by changing people’s perceptions and understandings of the games they play." He further elaborated on the broad impact of leveraging sport to alter perspectives on various issues, including race relations, international diplomacy, and social injustices like apartheid.

The discussion, featured in a Berkeley Talks podcast episode, delved into the history of predatory inclusion, athletes' quest for definitional authority, and the capacity of sport to drive meaningful societal change. Edwards underscored the importance of reevaluating the intersection of race and sport, shedding light on the potential for sports to facilitate constructive dialogues and catalyze social transformations.

The episode, originally aired in April 2022, provides a platform for listeners to engage with Edwards' profound reflections on the dynamic relationship between sport and society. For those interested in exploring the full conversation, a video of the talk is available on ISSI's YouTube page, offering a visual supplement to Edwards' compelling discourse.

As society continues to navigate complex issues and confront systemic challenges, Harry Edwards' perspectives serve as a poignant reminder of the influential role that sport can play in fostering meaningful change and promoting greater understanding among individuals and communities.