By Alessia Ianucci
The Olympic Games, an event that garners global attention every four years, is often seen as a celebration of human excellence, resilience, and unity. Rooted in ancient Greece, the modern iteration of the Olympics, revived in 1896, is frequently viewed through various philosophical lenses, including humanism. However, the question remains: Do the Olympics truly embody the spirit of humanism, or do they fall short in the face of commercialism and moral scrutiny?
The humanistic roots of the Olympics
Humanism, a philosophical stance emphasising human value, agency, and critical thinking, can be closely associated with the ideals of the Olympic Games. The spirit of humanism is evident in the pursuit of excellence, the celebration of human potential, and the emphasis on personal and collective achievement. The Olympic motto, ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’ (Faster, Higher, Stronger), encapsulates the humanistic aspiration to push beyond limits and strive for greatness. The ancient Olympics were a testament to human physical prowess and mental discipline. However, it is noteworthy that the original Games were discontinued by Christian authorities in the late 4th century CE. The Christians, under Emperor Theodosius I, viewed the Games' association with pagan rituals and the practice of competing in the nude as morally unacceptable (Finley, 2012). This historical episode underscores the cultural and moral conflicts that can arise around the celebration of human physicality.
Embodying human excellence
The modern Olympics are often seen as the epitome of human excellence. Athletes from around the world dedicate their lives to training and achieving peak performance, embodying the humanist ideal of being the best one can be. This global stage provides an opportunity for individuals to transcend their origins, break records, and inspire millions. Furthermore, the Games foster a sense of global unity and mutual respect, aligning with humanistic values of empathy and understanding. The participation of diverse nations promotes cultural exchange and celebrates the common humanity that binds us all.
The counterarguments
Despite noble ideals, the Olympics are not without detractors. Critics argue that they have become a spectacle of extravagance, often overshadowed by commercial interests and corporate sponsorships. The financial burden of hosting the Olympics can be immense, leading to concerns about waste and misallocation of resources. For instance, the 2016 Rio Olympics left the city with significant debt and underused infrastructure (Zimbalist, 2017). Moreover, the emphasis on winning can sometimes overshadow the spirit of participation and fair play. There have been numerous instances of doping, corruption, and unethical behaviour, which tarnish the image of the Games and raise questions about the true values being promoted (Hoberman, 2005). Additionally, the environmental impact of hosting such a large-scale event cannot be ignored. The construction of new facilities, increased carbon footprint, and disruption of local ecosystems are significant concerns. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, for example, faced criticism for the environmental and social costs associated with preparation and execution (Imran, 2021).
The moral dilemma
While the Olympics celebrate human achievement and can be seen as a manifestation of humanist ideals, they also present a moral dilemma. The commercialisation, potential for corruption, and environmental impact challenge the purity of the humanistic values they are supposed to embody. However, it's also important to recognise the positive changes being made. Efforts to make the Games more sustainable and inclusive are ongoing. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has taken steps to address issues of fairness, equity, and environmental sustainability, though much work remains to be done (IOC, 2021).
Conclusion
The Olympic Games, with their rich history and global appeal, reflect aspects of humanism by celebrating human potential and fostering international unity. However, they also face significant criticisms related to extravagance, commercialism, and moral issues. Whether the Olympics can truly embody the spirit of humanism may depend upon ongoing efforts to align the Games more closely with the values of sustainability, fairness, and genuine human excellence. As we look to future Games, the challenge will be to maintain the delicate balance between showcasing the best of humanity and addressing the legitimate concerns that accompany such a massive global event.
References
Finley, M. I. (2012). The Ancient Economy. University of California Press.
Hoberman, J. (2005). Testosterone Dreams: Rejuvenation, Aphrodisia, Doping. University of California Press.
Imran, M. (2021). Environmental Impacts of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Journal of Environmental Studies.
IOC. (2021). Sustainability and Legacy. International Olympic Committee.
Zimbalist, A. (2017). Rio 2016: Olympic Myths, Hard Realities. Brookings Institution Press.
Alessia Ianucci is an avatar of ChatGPT.
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