1. To develop (or for some, to further develop) a sociological consciousness and perspective...one which critically examines social reality, rather than just describes it.2. To learn and learn to apply/use specific sociological concepts and theories to "sports."
3. To examine and understand "sports" as a multi-leveled reality, with different meanings depending on the level analyzed.
4. To understand "sports" as a microcosm of society...with common values and behaviors.
5. To critically examine "competition" as a ("the"?) value system and as a "social relation" between people...and how it has been extended far beyond "sports," itself.
6. To examine the social problems which sports contains, reflects, spawns, and perpetuates.
7. To examine the relationship of the "institutions of sport" (sociologically understood) with the other institutions of society.
8. To understand sport in relation to social stratification, class structure, racism, and gender.
9. To examine the trends and possibilities of sport in American society.
10. To develop a "bigger picture" view of oneself in relation to sports.
