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Civility, Rituals, and Exclusion: The Emergence of American Golf during the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries
Author(s) -
Varner Monica K.,
Knottnerus J. David
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
sociological inquiry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.446
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1475-682X
pISSN - 0038-0245
DOI - 10.1111/1475-682x.00026
Subject(s) - civility , etiquette , decorum , sociology , law , code (set theory) , aesthetics , history , political science , politics , philosophy , archaeology , set (abstract data type) , computer science , programming language
This study examines the relationship between golf and civility and advances the work of Norbert Elias by providing a theoretically informed analysis of the ritual dynamics involved in the civilizing process. Employing content analysis of texts and other forms of data, the authors examine the origins of American golf between 1894 and 1920 and the way various attributes of civility were expressed in this newly emerging recreational pursuit. This research demonstrates that social characteristics of civility found in European noble pastimes were also present in the American game of golf. These qualities dictated a civilized code of conduct and etiquette that included self–restraint, practice, courteousness, proper decorum, compliance, and honorable behavior. Such a code of conduct distinguished the upper class from those of lower rank and designated the game of golf for the former while discouraging others from participating in this pastime.