Political Economy of the Super Bowl

American society functions in a capitalist political economy, in which there is a connection between the nations’ current economy and society as consumers and nationalists.  The Super Bowl serves as an existing example of political economy in that its entire infrastructure manipulates the system of the economy but it also showcases the culture and values of sport in this society.  A political economy can not be easily defined. It incorporates different meanings and ideologies that make it a complex, yet important aspect of society.  These ideologies come about as reactions of a society to its economic situation.  In analyzing sports culture, political economy is a logical method that can be used to ask questions such as who owns what, who distributes what, how much money is being spent and how each segment is related. 

2009 Super Bowl: Steelers vs. Cardinals

The Super Bowl is an enigma that can influence several areas of American culture and the economy from the perspective of the owners of media distribution.  However, it also impacts the community of the city the event is hosted, like Tampa Bay.  The Super Bowl is not owned by one distributor.  Owners of distribution in Tampa Bay come to into the picture because the Super Bowl is an event that can be capitalized upon.  It is a network of communication between several participants that include but are not limited to Tampa Bay government, Tampa Bay Sports Commission, and media outlets like NBC and NFL network. 

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Political Economy of the Super Bowl

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