ERIC_NO:
ED358047
TITLE:
Sport and Religion: An Unholy Alliance.
AUTHOR:
Lay, Nancy
PUBLICATION_DATE:
1993
ABSTRACT:
This paper points out the affinity of two basic elements of human existence--religion and sport--and then attempts to explain why they should
be separate. It addresses the nature of religion, religion in America,
the nature of sport, sport as religion, and reasons for the incompatibility
of sport and religion. Similarities between sport and religion are listed,
and the writings of several authors whose athletic experiences have had
religious overtones are cited. Reasons for the incompatibility of sport
and religion are then presented, including: (1) the essence of religion
is selflessness and the essence of sport is selfishness; (2) treating
God as some kind of supercoach demeans both religion and sport; (3) many
athletes are practicing magic rather than religion; (4) athletes on praying
teams are pressured to conform to team behavior, thus violating their
religious freedom; and (5) some religious organizations for athletes
represent the religious right, which often fosters authoritarianism and
intolerance. (Contains 48 references.) (JDD)
MAJOR_DESCRIPTORS:
Athletics; Integrated Activities; Religion; Sport Psychology;
MINOR DESCRIPTORS:
Adults; Philosophy;
IDENTIFIERS:
United States
PUBLICATION_TYPE:
120