Culture and Social Capital in The Sociology of Sport: An Exploration of Theoretical Frameworks and Methodologies in China and Abroad

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the theories of culture and social capital in the sociology of sport, and to analyze in depth the application and impact of these theories in the sociology of sport research by comparing different theoretical frameworks and methodologies between China and the West. This paper outlines the core concepts of culture and social capital in the sociology of sport, and by comparing the research results of Chinese and Western scholars, it reveals the importance of culture in shaping sport behaviors and sport organizations, as well as the role of social capital in facilitating sport participation and the construction of social networks. This paper compiles the research methodologies of Western sport sociology that mainly focus on quantitative research, such as social network analysis and social capital measurement and Chinese sociology of sport that emphasizes more on qualitative research. the paper also explores how to integrate Chinese and foreign sport sociology theories in the context of globalization to meet the challenges and opportunities of future research. Through this study, the paper aims to provide theoretical foundations and methodological guidance for the further development of Chinese and foreign sociology of sport, and to promote international cooperation and exchanges between academics in this field.