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This book examines reasons behind English football hooliganism, presenting various approaches on this phenomenon. At a time, when violence is becoming increasingly omnipresent, this topic is even more late-breaking, as it engages in its social background. At the outset, the book takes a differentiated look at the term hooliganism , moreover delineating the subculture s distinct characteristics and specific historical development. Accordingly, potential correlates and theories are analysed regarding their accountability. Which role do actors such as the media and the police play? Is football violence exposing underlying class values or a display of ritualised aggro? Is there also a psychological nature to it? These and more questions will be investigated. Beyond, the book discusses how English society has experienced and counteracted hooliganism so far, both addressing the worst football riots in history and outlining immediate repressive measures as well as preventive and proactive actions, including recommendations for all involved. In conclusion, further considerations take the complexity of the subject up again and the present situation is summarised.

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Christin Fritsche, M.A.:English and American Studies / Adult Education and Vocational Training at Chemnitz University of Technology and Sheffield University. Previously, translator and instructor for English as a Foreign Language. Currently, private tutor, project coordinator and editor for German and English.

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