Faith and Futball: Spectator Sport as Communal Endeavor

• In Event: 20420 - Section on Sociology of Culture Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 11: Ethnography

Abstract

This article explores the parallels between religiosity and sports fandom as it pertains to futball (soccer) fans. Based on interviews and participant observation of matches in Lisbon, London, and Milan, I focus on the symbolic and ritualistic elements of fandom that unleash collective effervescence and build solidarity. These “elementary forms” of fandom--hallowed grounds, sacred symbols (totems and flags), chants and mottos, and metaphysical explanations for shared suffering-similar to those of religious worship, provide fans with a sense of collective identity and purpose. In increasingly secularized and complex societies, futball fandom establishes connection and fellowship, forging civic solidarity by bonding fans to their teams, to one another, and to their respective communities.

Author

• Max Arthur Herman, New Jersey City University