'A very welcome contribution to our national understanding' Lord Jack McConnell of Glenscorrodale A multidisciplinary analysis of sectarianism and bigotry in Scottish football Sectarianism and bigotry are among the most publicly debated issues in Scotland, often reported in the newspapers as the 'shame' of Scotland's national game. The current crisis in Scottish football includes high-profile controversies and alleged disorder related to bigotry and sectarianism which resulted in new legislation to tackle offensive behaviour in and beyond football grounds. In this collection, contributors from a range of disciplinary positions present the latest empirical research evidence and social theory to examine and debate fundamental issues about bigotry in Scottish football and society. The topic has raised many questions. How should sectarianism and bigotry be defined and understood? What are the experiences and impacts of bigotry on different populations in Scotland? Are recent events unique or do they have historic precedents and contemporary comparisons beyond Scotland? What should be the response of government, football authorities, clubs, football supporters and other institutions and organisations in Scotland regarding legislation? What vision should we have for a future Scottish society and its diverse population? Bigotry, Football and Scotland has appeal to all those interested in Scotland's national game, the role of football in the 21st Century and how multicultural contemporary societies attempt to resolve prejudice and promote diversity. John Flint is Professor of Town and Regional Planning and Head of Department in the Department of Town and Regional Planning at the University of Sheffield. John Kelly is a sociologist who lectures in Sports Management in the Moray House School of Education at the University of Edinburgh. Cover images: (c) Tjanze/iStockphoto.com. Cover design: [EUP logo] www.euppublishing.com

John Flint is Professor of Town and Regional Planning in the Department of Town and Regional Planning at the University of Sheffield. He previously held positions at Sheffield Hallam, Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities. His research interests include citizenship, cohesion, religion, urban governance and crime and anti-social behavior. He has conducted studies for funders including research councils and charities, government departments, local authorities and voluntary organizations.

John Kelly is a sociologist who lectures in Sports Management in the Moray House School of Education at the University of Edinburgh. He is a member of the Sport Policy, Management and Culture research group housed within the Institute for Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences. His current publications and research revolve around sectarianism, nationalism, militarism and sport.