Critical Theory Flashcards
What do critical theories focus on?
They examine power relations in social life, how they are reproduced and contested, and their impact on culture, inequality, and social relations.
What are the key questions posed by critical theories?
How are imbalanced power relations produced and reproduced?
How do people struggle over culture and its meanings?
How does ‘normalization’ convey power?
What was Antonio Gramsci’s perspective on power?
Gramsci viewed society as characterized by power struggles and sought to go beyond Marxist economic determinism by emphasizing ideology as a mechanism for consent and maintaining capitalist power imbalances.
What is hegemony?
A form of power based on consent rather than coercion, where dominant classes shape cultural institutions and beliefs to maintain their privileged position and make their values appear “natural.”
How does ideology relate to hegemony?
Ideology helps secure dominance by making certain cultural beliefs appear universal and normal, leading subordinate groups to accept the social order as inevitable.
What is counter-hegemony?
Counter-hegemonic ideas and resistance challenge dominant ideologies and practices, reflecting ongoing tensions and contestation within society.
How is sport viewed through critical theories?
Sport is seen as a cultural site that reflects and reproduces dominant cultural values and beliefs, systematically privileging certain groups over others.
What is meant by a ‘culture of similarity’ in sport?
It refers to an environment in sports where those not part of the dominant group are actively or passively excluded, reinforcing existing power dynamics.
Why is sport described as never static?
Sport as a cultural institution is subject to change and can incorporate counter-hegemonic trends, adapting to resistance and alternative influences.
What are some criticisms of critical theories?
The concept of hegemony can be vague.
There are no unified strategies for addressing social problems and injustices.
Critical assessments of sport may not necessarily oppose sport itself or its participants.
