Sectarianism, anti-sectarianism and Scottish football

Citation

Bradley J (2015) Sectarianism, anti-sectarianism and Scottish football. Sport in Society, 18 (5), pp. 588-603. https://doi.org/10.1080/17430437.2014.976008

Abstract
In 2012, the Scottish Parliament voted through anti-vilification legislation known as the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act. Among those most prominent in opposing this have been supporters of Celtic Football Club. This paper looks at the history of the term ‘sectarianism’ as a means to understand the act and to consider some of the rationale behind Celtic supporters' resistance. It includes reflection on aspects of the social, cultural and religious context within and without football, which have contributed to the act's construction and opposition.

Journal
Sport in Society: Volume 18, Issue 5