Plato, Aristotle, Serena, and Messi?” Philosophical Perspectives on Sports
Plato, Aristotle, Serena, and Messi?” Philosophical Perspectives on Sports
(25) Plato, Aristotle, Serena, and Messi?” Philosophical Perspectives on Sports - Elizabeth Schiltz, Department of Philosophy
Soccer great Bill Shankley once said, “Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.” This writing-intensive seminar explores and evaluates the nature and value of sports in the lives of individuals and societies through critical analysis of sources ranging from the Republic, the Upanishads, and Descartes’ Meditations, through 30 for 30, Bounce, and Invictus. What is it to participate in a sport—and what is it to excel in one? How should we think about the role and value of sports in the lives of athletes and fans? How have sports functioned in historical cultures, as a part of contemporary societies, and within diverse communities? Throughout the semester, we will refine our evolving understanding of sports through analysis of thorny issues in the individual and social practice of sports ranging from the ethics of intentional fouls and performance-enhancing drugs through concerns about economic exploitation and discrimination. At the same time, we will work to develop our skills in critical thinking, reading, and oral and written expression through rigorous discussion, argumentative essays, and digital research projects.