During the lecture, the author explained how soccer was introduced to Brazil and talked about the origins of prejudice in the sport, with its multiple representations, since its beginnings in the late nineteenth century to the present day: Racism was one of the most evident traits at the beginning of Brazilian soccer. Racism coupled with a flagrant social and cultural elitism, in the concentration of income, power and opportunities, he said.

Mauricio Murad also examined the relationship between violence and soccer in Brazil and worldwide. The beauty of the game and the vibration of fans cannot be at the mercy of vandalistic groups. The barbarity cannot take over the scene of soccer as a sport, art and public show, and cannot lose this decisive game to violence, said the speaker, presenting international and domestic experiences of the combat and control of such practices.

The series of debates Contemporary Issues is now open to the public and has already been attended by personalities such as EPGE's deputy director, Aloisio Araujo and Indian economist Partha Dasgupta - one of the leading experts in world economy. Professor Tiago Berriel and IBRE's researcher Regis Bonelli were also present.

The next meeting, on indigenous groups in the history of Rio de Janeiro, will take place on May 14. The theme will be presented by researcher Marina Machado.