I'm finding this topic to be harder than I thought.
These are my early ramblings.
Any ideas most welcome.
Introduction
Origins of Sport
Define sports. The emergence and growth of sports can be partly linked to the evolution of humankind in general. The theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin refers to natural selection as ensuring that the fittest animals are the most likely to perpetuate their genes in future generations (Baumeister & Bushman, 2008). This led to the evolution and extraordinary growth in physical and mental powers which placed humankind on top of the food chain. Man’s increased intelligence led to more active methods of acquiring foods such as hunting, often with the use of tools and weapons. An increased emphasis on physical prowess saw children trained for their future roles as hunters and warriors. This commonly took the form of organized games aimed at building skills relevant to physical performance. The quality of human life grew rapidly during this time allowing more scope for creativeness of expression through movement. Communal dance provided the first manifestation of this revolution, endearing many to the catharsis of trance (Olivova, 1984).
The practicality and desirability of possessing exceptional skills and strength meant that possession of these attributes greatly enhanced social standing. Such abilities were frequently tested in challenging situations such as the hunting of dangerous beasts. Elite members of society frequently took part in contests which encouraged and nurtured the competitive spirit, the fundamental driving force of sport (Olivova, 1984).
To be continued…
Ancient Sports
Olympia
Aristotle describes a young man's ultimate physical beauty: "a body capable of enduring all efforts, either of the racecourse or of bodily strength...This is why the athletes in the pentathlon are most beautiful." (Aristotle, Rhetoric 1361b)
Idealism – Search for perfection in the human form.
Teams
Cooperation
Groups
Social Facilitation - Evaluation apprehension, dominant response.
Altruistic punishment
Leadership - Power.
Colonialism
Did sport help bring cultures together?
Role of sport - Cricket in India, West Indies (British colonialism)
History of American sport
Australian sport
Nationalism/ parochialism
Identity
Collectivism
Self esteem
Violence/ fanaticism
Professionalism
Motivation
Incentives
Media
Sponsorship
Corporatization
Gambling
Conclusion
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2 comments:
1. Have you come across anything by Desmond Morris? He wrote a classic book called "The Soccer Tribe" (I think) which provided a fascinating analysis of sport, but particularly soccer/football as a ritualistic group hunt. He analysed behaviour and body language associated with various effects e.g., a goal, defeat, and the way teammembers reacted to one another and the opposition, etc., as well as the crowd with their war paint, songs, reactions, etc.
2. You also may be interested in these notes I've made about http://wilderdom.com/psycho-evolutionary Re-engaging Intra-indigenous Consciousness
Thanks James I will check them out. I have found it hard to find much relevant information so any help is much appreciated.
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