In class, we mostly associated the Theory of the Spiral of Silence to political issues and presidential election polls, but I also found another interesting and very appropriate comparison to sports. Something that a lot of us can relate too yet may not have ever put the two together. This article mentions two legendary sports teams in the grandest city of American Sports. These two teams are the New York Mets and the New York Yankees. This poll that the article mentions states what most sports fans already know and that is that more baseball fans in New York like the Yankees over the Mets. The poll found that 34% of New York roots for the Yankees, while 25% root only for the Mets. The interesting thing I found that relates most to the Spiral of Silence Theory is that the other 41% of New York fans are either undecided or like cheering for both of the teams. It makes sense that most fans have allegiance to one team but if they are around opposing fans that like the other team. Some fear alienation whereas other fans are more brave as to show their alliance. This is frequently seen at sports games when the home team scores, if there are fans wearing the opposing jersey or hat, they are more likely to stay seated and not draw attention to them. I found it to be a very cool and interesting article.
Dave Henney
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