‘Like That Desmond Morris?’

Abstract

Abstract In an attempt to redress gaps in our knowledge this study attempted a specific anthropological case study of a group of football hooligans. These were supporters of Sheffield United FC, nicknamed ‘The Blades’ due to their being founded by cutlers of the city’s renowned steel industry. Borrowing this nickname all supporters of the club and also the Hooligan Element call themselves and each other Blades. For clarity I used this title when referring to the hooligans, and ‘Unitedites’ when referring to dub supporters. Blades know they arc hooligans, but do not refer to themselves or others by this term except in jest and ridicule.