Social Issues in Esports

The book offers new sociological analyses of esports, exploring key issues such as gender equity, diversity, cheating, doping, physical and mental health, and governance, and suggesting directions for future research and implications for practice and development in the esports industry. It is essential reading for advanced students, researchers, and practitioners in esports, sociology, gaming studies, media studies, and the interaction of ICT and wider society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Esports, a rapidly growing field, has gained significant attention in recent years, but the literature has primarily focused on business and management perspectives. To address this gap, a new book titled "Esports: A Sociological Perspective" has been published, bringing together leading esports experts from Europe, North America, and Australia. The book offers new sociological analyses that define and locate esports in social studies, exploring key issues such as gender equity, diversity, cheating and doping, physical and mental health, and governance of esports. It presents new empirical research alongside critical, theoretical perspectives, addressing themes such as digitalisation, technology, equality, innovation, and welfare. The book is essential reading for advanced students, researchers, and practitioners working in esports, the sociology of sport, gaming studies, media studies, sociology, or the interaction of ICT and wider society.

The book begins by defining esports and its various forms, including professional gaming, amateur gaming, and eSports tournaments. It then explores the social and cultural factors that have contributed to the growth of esports, including the rise of the internet, the increasing popularity of video games, and the emergence of new technologies. The authors argue that esports is not just a game but a complex social phenomenon that has significant implications for society.

One of the key issues addressed in the book is gender equity in esports. The authors highlight the gender disparities that exist in the industry, with women often being underrepresented and marginalized. They argue that this is due to a variety of factors, including cultural norms, gender stereotypes, and the lack of funding and support for women's esports. The book provides examples of successful women's esports teams and organizations and suggests ways to address these issues.

Diversity is another important issue in esports. The authors argue that esports should be inclusive and accessible to people from all backgrounds and abilities. They highlight the importance of diversity in the gaming community and suggest ways to promote it. The book provides examples of successful diversity initiatives in esports and suggests ways to improve them.

Cheating and doping are also significant issues in esports. The authors argue that these practices are harmful to the integrity of the sport and can have negative consequences for players' health and well-being. They provide examples of cheating and doping in esports and suggest ways to prevent them.

Physical and mental health are also important issues in esports. The authors argue that the intense training and competition required in esports can have negative effects on players' physical and mental health. They provide examples of players who have suffered from burnout, depression, and other mental health issues. The book suggests ways to address these issues and promote player health and well-being.

Governance of esports is also a significant issue. The authors argue that esports should be governed in a transparent and accountable manner. They highlight the importance of regulation and the need for independent oversight of the industry. The book provides examples of successful governance initiatives in esports and suggests ways to improve them.

In addition to these issues, the book also explores the impact of esports on society. The authors argue that esports can have positive effects on society, such as promoting social inclusion, reducing social isolation, and providing opportunities for young people to develop skills and careers. However, they also highlight the negative effects of esports, such as addiction, violence, and cyberbullying.

The book presents new empirical research that supports these arguments. The authors conducted surveys and interviews with esports players, coaches, and industry professionals to gather data on the various issues discussed in the book. The research findings are presented in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for readers to understand.

The book also includes critical, theoretical perspectives that provide a deeper understanding of the issues discussed. The authors argue that esports is a complex social phenomenon that requires a multidisciplinary approach. They draw on theories from sociology, psychology, and economics to provide insights into the various issues discussed.

One of the strengths of the book is its interdisciplinary approach. The authors bring together experts from different fields to provide a comprehensive analysis of esports. This allows for a more nuanced understanding of the issues and provides a more holistic approach to addressing them.

Another strength of the book is its practical implications. The authors provide suggestions for how to address the various issues discussed in the book. They suggest ways to promote gender equity, diversity, cheating and doping, physical and mental health, and governance of esports. They also suggest ways to improve the industry's transparency and accountability.

However, the book also has some limitations. One of the limitations is that it focuses primarily on the European, North American, and Australian esports scene. This means that the book may not be as relevant to esports in other parts of the world. Additionally, the book may not cover all of the issues discussed in depth.

Despite these limitations, "Esports: A Sociological Perspective" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in esports, the sociology of sport, gaming studies, media studies, sociology, or the interaction of ICT and wider society. The book provides new insights into social issues in esports and suggests ways to address them. It is essential reading for advanced students, researchers, and practitioners working in the field.

In conclusion, "Esports: A Sociological Perspective" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in esports, the sociology of sport, gaming studies, media studies, sociology, or the interaction of ICT and wider society. The book provides new insights into social issues in esports and suggests ways to address them. It is essential reading for advanced students, researchers, and practitioners working in the field.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 234 x 155 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032193212