Why Sport?: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport

Why humans play sport is a fundamental question for anyone interested in sport. Why Sport? surveys the philosophical underpinnings of sport and goes on to apply these concepts to the complex world of sport today. Developed as an undergraduate textbook, it introduces philosophical ideas in a balanced and thought-provoking fashion that will engage student and instructor alike. It encourages reflection on what it means to play sport and a consideration of the ways that coaches, sport administrators, and athletes can help improve today's sport experience. Among the complex issues explored are: youth involvement in sport, the idea of fairness, the autonomy of athletes, cheating, doping, violence, coach-athlete relationships, gender issues, and the aesthetic dimensions of sport. Athletes, coaches, sport administrators, and others interested in the role of sport and physical activity in society will benefit enormously from this book.