A review of the social significance of Association Football. This volume traces the history, social context and national/nationalist role of football in the culture and mass media of countries across the globe, ranging from Europe, the USA and Canada, to Asia and the Pacific.

The missionary position - football in the societies of the British Isles, Stephen Wagg; the lion stirs - football in African society, Ossie Stuart; don't stop the carnival - football in the societies of Latin America, Morris Biriotti del Burgo; an un-American activity? Football in the USA and Canada, David Waldstein and Stephen Wagg; going to market - football in the societies of Eastern Europe, Vic Duke; on the continent - football in the societies of North-Western Europe, Stephen Wagg; cathedrals in concrete - football in the societies of Southern Europe, Pierre Lanfranchi; cultural revolution? Football in the societies of Asia and the Pacific, Bill Murray; Mr Drains, go home - football in the societies of the Middle East, Stephen Wagg; the business of America - reflections on World Cup '94.