During the Games and in their immediate aftermath, the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics were heralded a success. The hosts, Great Britain, were celebrated by the media and the International Olympic Committee for the outward promotion of equality, tolerance and unity as well as inspiring a legacy to continue these core Olympic and Paralympic values. This volume attempts to question these assumed 'successes' using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Each chapter negotiates a different sociological topic relating to the juxtaposition between the assumed equality, tolerance and unity of London 2012, including perceptions of disabilities, gender equality and national identities. Addressing key controversies that emerged before, during and after the spectacle of the Games, this collection uses the sociological concept of 'diminishing contrasts, increasing varieties' to evaluate the real legacy of London 2012.