Mega-Events, City and Power

This book explores the power relations that emerge from the convergence of the universe in which the sporting spectacle is produced and the universe in which a city is produced, using Bourdieu's concept of field to investigate the interests and disputes involved in the production of sports mega-events and the role of host cities in these processes. It aims to identify the bases that give these spectacles the power to produce disruptions in the social fabric of host cities and countries and to enable the production of authoritarian forms of exercising power.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay of power relations that arise from the convergence of two distinct universes: the universe of sports spectacle production and the universe of urban development. By employing Bourdieu's concept of field, the author embarks on a profound exploration of the interests, disputes, and dynamics involved in the creation of sports mega-events across different temporal and spatial contexts. The focus lies in examining the role of host cities in these processes, as they play a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes. The book's central objective is to identify the underlying foundations that grant these spectacles the extraordinary power to disrupt the social fabric of host cities and countries. Furthermore, it seeks to unravel the mechanisms that enable the emergence of authoritarian forms of power exercise. Through a meticulous examination of the historical constitution of the field of sport spectacle production as an autonomous field, the author uncovers how mega-events establish both an arena and a context for the radical expressions of authoritarianism inherent in neoliberal planning models. This insightful work will captivate students, scholars, and professionals in the fields of architecture and urban studies, urban planning, municipal governance, sport and leisure studies, as well as those intrigued by the intricate relationship between the State and capital in the production of urban space.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367563653