A theoretical framework for the study of sport sociology is provided in this text. It is intended for students of sport, arts and humanities, sociology, and social psychology. Sport and social organization are discussed first. Three models of societies and six theories of social organization are presented which form the basis of the eclectic approach to the study of sport sociology taken in this text. A major assumption in the text--human activities require both behavior and action-- is based on the hypothesis that all human activities can have expressive character. Human acts, activities, and actions that appear to be play or sport among adults are termed human expression. It is shown that expression is a characteristic that is necessary for sport to emanate and exist today. In discussion of the nature of sport, a nominal definition of sport is forwarded: Sport, potentially a form of human expression, is historically derived from kinetic play and is culturally sanctioned as basically a leisure activity. In order to adequately explain the phenomenon of sport, play--the basis of sport--is explained through biological, psychological, and sociological interpretations. Sport and play are differentiated from games--sport is an adult, kinetic activity; games are for the young and are mental and social. Sport is then discussed in relation to the ecosystem, kinship and religion, politics, economics, technology, the cultural system, and the social process. A bibliography and references are included. (MM)