What do you think?
Rate this book
Playing Games: An introduction to the philosophy of sport through dialogue
What is sport? Why does sport matter? How can we use philosophy to understand what sport means today? This engaging and highly original introduction to the philosophy of sport uses dialogue - a form of philosophical investigation - to address the fundamental questions in sport studies and to explore key contemporary issues such as fair play, gender, drug use, cheating, entertainment and identity.
Providing a clear, informative and accessible introduction to the philosophy of sport, every chapter includes current sporting examples as well as review questions and guides to further reading. The dialogue form enables students to engage in debate and raise questions, while encouraging them to think from the perspectives of athlete, coach, spectator and philosopher. The issues raised present real and complex ethical dilemmas that relate to a variety of sports from around the world such as soccer, athletics, baseball, basketball, hockey and tennis.
No other book brings this rich subject to life through the use of dialogue, making this an indispensable companion to any course on the philosophy or ethics of sport.
Providing a clear, informative and accessible introduction to the philosophy of sport, every chapter includes current sporting examples as well as review questions and guides to further reading. The dialogue form enables students to engage in debate and raise questions, while encouraging them to think from the perspectives of athlete, coach, spectator and philosopher. The issues raised present real and complex ethical dilemmas that relate to a variety of sports from around the world such as soccer, athletics, baseball, basketball, hockey and tennis.
No other book brings this rich subject to life through the use of dialogue, making this an indispensable companion to any course on the philosophy or ethics of sport.
212 pages, Paperback
Published October 18, 2016
2 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 of 1 review
February 15, 2025
In Playing Games: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport Through Dialogue, Randolph Feezell argues that philosophy of sport is a way to clarify fundamental aspects of human activity. The introduction presents the book’s central question ‘Why does sport attract people?’ and the characters Logan, Skylar, Riley, Pat, and J.K., as representatives of different perspectives on the philosophy of sport. Feezell emphasizes that the dialogues are not literary explorations, but philosophical conversations centered on argumentation.
In "Why Philosophy of Sport?" the book begins by establishing the philosophical significance of sport and setting the stage for deeper inquiry into its nature and purpose. Pat introduces the ‘attraction question’ and suggests that understanding sport philosophically requires conceptual analysis. Riley expresses skepticism about philosophy’s usefulness, while Logan claims that sport is fundamentally about competition and winning. Pat introduces classical conceptual analysis and Wittgenstein’s idea of family resemblances to examine whether sport has a fixed definition. Riley argues that definitions are subjective and relative, but Pat counters that philosophical discussion can clarify meaning. Skylar, initially indifferent to sports, gradually participates in the discussion, questioning sport’s significance in culture, whether its appeal arises naturally or is socially constructed, and whether competition distorts its essence. By the end of the chapter, Skylar acknowledges that sport may have broader implications beyond mere competition, showing a shift in perspective from detachment to a deeper curiosity about the philosophical issues at hand.
In "What is Sport?" the discussion builds on the previous chapter as the characters attempt to define sport itself, engaging in a debate over its essential characteristics and scope. Logan maintains that competition is central to sport and insists that a proper definition must account for the drive to win. Skylar questions whether defining sport is necessary at all, suggesting that its meaning is fluid and context-dependent. Riley, skeptical of rigid definitions, argues that different cultures and individuals may interpret sport in varying ways. Pat explains that philosophical analysis, particularly conceptual analysis, can help clarify these issues, even if a definitive definition remains elusive. The group examines whether physical activity is a necessary condition for sport and whether non-physical games such as chess or esports should be included, ultimately highlighting the complexities of defining sport and questioning whether traditional distinctions remain relevant.
With a clearer understanding of what sport entails, the discussion "Sportsmanship" shifts the discussion toward the ethical considerations within sport, focusing on the meaning and role of sportsmanship. J.K. joins the conversation and provides an 'academic perspective.' The group debates whether sportsmanship is about moral virtue, following rules, or tradition. Logan argues that competitiveness does not conflict with sportsmanship, asserting that striving to win can coexist with fair play and respect. He contends that strong competition can actually reinforce sportsmanship by compelling athletes to hold themselves and others to high standards of conduct. Skylar and Riley emphasize fairness, suggesting that an excessive focus on competition can erode mutual respect and ethical behavior. J.K. introduces the concept of a regulative ideal, explaining that sportsmanship is not a static code but an evolving principle that reflects shifting cultural and ethical norms. He argues that sportsmanship serves as an aspirational guide, shaping how competitors balance their drive to win with broader moral considerations. The discussion presents sportsmanship as a nuanced and evolving concept, debating whether it functions as a moral virtue, a set of traditions, or a practical approach to sustaining fairness and competition, without achieving a final consensus.
In "Cheating and Running Up the Score," the group explores the ethical boundaries of fair play, examining the concepts of cheating and the acceptability of dominant victories. The group defines cheating by distinguishing between breaking explicit rules and violating the spirit of the game. Pat outlines three perspectives: the absolutist, who sees all rule violations as unacceptable; the traditionalist, who believes cheating undermines the integrity of the game but accepts some flexibility within conventional norms; and the realist, who views rule violations as strategic moves within the competitive framework. They debate whether running up the score is poor sportsmanship or a legitimate part of competition. Riley questions whether moral norms in sport are universally applicable. By the end of the discussion, the group concludes that although a strict definition of cheating remains contested, fairness and integrity should guide competitive behavior.
"Trash Talking and Gamesmanship," expands on the ethics of competition and the conversation turns to verbal strategies and mind games, questioning whether they align with or contradict the spirit of fair competition. Logan and Pat argue that trash talking is a strategic component of sport, asserting that it can serve as a psychological tool to gain a competitive edge. Pat emphasizes that gamesmanship, including verbal tactics, has always been part of sport culture. Skylar, however, critiques this perspective, arguing that trash talking erodes the integrity of sport by fostering hostility rather than respect among competitors. J.K. introduces concerns about whether psychological tactics compromise fair competition, highlighting that ethical guidelines for trash talking vary across different sports and cultures, and questioning whether competitive verbal engagement enhances or detracts from the integrity of sport. He emphasizes that while some forms of verbal engagement are accepted within competitive norms, others cross ethical boundaries. Riley suggests that the acceptability of trash talking varies by sport and cultural norms. The discussion distinguishes gamesmanship from unethical behavior, showing how sports culture influences attitudes toward fair play.
In "Competition and Winning," the discussion naturally progresses to an examination of competition itself, questioning the role and meaning of victory in sport. Logan asserts that winning is the essence of sport, arguing that competition is fundamentally about determining superiority. Pat acknowledges that competition has value beyond winning but maintains that sport is inherently competitive, serving as a medium for skill development and self-improvement. Skylar questions whether victory is the ultimate measure of success, proposing that enjoyment and effort should hold equal significance. Riley argues that competition may have value even in cases where winning is not the primary goal, suggesting that personal growth and community engagement provide alternative measures of success. The group analyzes competition in different contexts and recognizes that while winning remains a key aspect of sport, its significance depends on broader cultural and personal interpretations.
In "Drugs and Sport," the group considers whether performance-enhancing substances distort the nature of sport or simply extend its boundaries. Logan questions the justification for banning such substances, arguing that they are no different from other advancements in training and nutrition that enhance performance. Pat introduces the sport essentialist view, maintaining that drugs undermine fair competition by altering the fundamental nature of athletic achievement. J.K. explains that justifications for banning drugs include fairness, health risks, and the integrity of sport. Riley challenges these justifications, questioning whether such bans are based on genuine ethical concerns or merely an attempt to preserve an arbitrary status quo. He argues that if safety is the primary concern, then other dangerous elements of sport should also be restricted. The discussion presents different frameworks for evaluating the role of enhancement in sport, highlighting the tension between tradition, fairness, and evolving definitions of competition.
In "Gender and Sport," the dialogue questions established gender divisions and their implications. Logan argues that biological differences justify separate categories, while Skylar critiques the exclusion of women from certain sports, arguing that such separations often reflect outdated stereotypes rather than legitimate competitive concerns. J.K. presents feminist arguments about fairness and equal opportunity, emphasizing that historical discrimination has shaped modern sports structures and advocating for reevaluating gendered divisions. Riley questions whether mixed-gender competitions could offer a viable alternative, considering potential advantages and challenges. The discussion explores how gender norms and historical practices shape contemporary sports policies, with the group ultimately recognizing that while gender divisions persist, they are increasingly subject to scrutiny and reevaluation.
"Fans and Role Models" moves beyond the players themselves and the conversation broadens to consider the societal impact of athletes, particularly their influence as public figures and moral exemplars. Logan views athletes primarily as entertainers, suggesting that their personal behavior should not impact their professional status. Pat and J.K. argue that public visibility entails ethical responsibility. J.K. elaborates that because athletes are admired by millions, their behavior influences public perception, particularly among younger fans. He suggests that athletes have an implicit duty to uphold moral standards, as their actions set examples beyond the playing field. Skylar questions whether fans impose unrealistic expectations on players, emphasizing that society often holds athletes to a higher standard than other public figures. Riley examines the ethical implications of fandom, questioning whether sports figures should be moral exemplars or if their personal lives should remain separate from their athletic performances. The discussion highlights different perspectives on the relationship between athletes and their audiences, ultimately leaving the question of responsibility open-ended as the characters recognize the complexity of expectations placed on public figures.
In "Sport and Meaning" the dialogues culminate in an exploration of the broader existential and cultural significance of sport. Pat argues that sport offers narratives and existential significance, providing meaning through engagement, identity formation, and personal fulfillment. He contends that sport, like art and literature, can hold deep personal and collective meaning. Skylar remains skeptical, questioning whether sport is fundamentally important or merely a distraction from more meaningful pursuits. She challenges Pat’s view by arguing that the cultural obsession with sport overshadows more substantive aspects of life and that the value assigned to sports is socially constructed rather than inherent. Riley suggests that meaning in sport is subjective, shaped by personal experience rather than any universal significance. He contrasts with both Pat and Skylar by asserting that sport does not necessarily need intrinsic meaning to be valuable; its significance is contingent on individual and cultural interpretation. The discussion considers how sport influences identity and culture, concluding with an acknowledgment of sport’s complexity and the diverse ways individuals assign value to it.
In conclusion, Playing Games illustrates multiple perspectives on several of the fundamental questions within the philosophy of sport. Each chapter explores a key issue, with the characters debating definitions, ethics, and cultural values. The dialogues emphasize the movement within the process of argumentation and the role of philosophy in clarifying concepts. Ultimately, Playing Games portrays sport as a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by competition, ethics, and meaning. Moreover it encourages readers to reflect critically on sport’s role in human life, demonstrating how philosophical inquiry applies to everyday activities.
In "Why Philosophy of Sport?" the book begins by establishing the philosophical significance of sport and setting the stage for deeper inquiry into its nature and purpose. Pat introduces the ‘attraction question’ and suggests that understanding sport philosophically requires conceptual analysis. Riley expresses skepticism about philosophy’s usefulness, while Logan claims that sport is fundamentally about competition and winning. Pat introduces classical conceptual analysis and Wittgenstein’s idea of family resemblances to examine whether sport has a fixed definition. Riley argues that definitions are subjective and relative, but Pat counters that philosophical discussion can clarify meaning. Skylar, initially indifferent to sports, gradually participates in the discussion, questioning sport’s significance in culture, whether its appeal arises naturally or is socially constructed, and whether competition distorts its essence. By the end of the chapter, Skylar acknowledges that sport may have broader implications beyond mere competition, showing a shift in perspective from detachment to a deeper curiosity about the philosophical issues at hand.
In "What is Sport?" the discussion builds on the previous chapter as the characters attempt to define sport itself, engaging in a debate over its essential characteristics and scope. Logan maintains that competition is central to sport and insists that a proper definition must account for the drive to win. Skylar questions whether defining sport is necessary at all, suggesting that its meaning is fluid and context-dependent. Riley, skeptical of rigid definitions, argues that different cultures and individuals may interpret sport in varying ways. Pat explains that philosophical analysis, particularly conceptual analysis, can help clarify these issues, even if a definitive definition remains elusive. The group examines whether physical activity is a necessary condition for sport and whether non-physical games such as chess or esports should be included, ultimately highlighting the complexities of defining sport and questioning whether traditional distinctions remain relevant.
With a clearer understanding of what sport entails, the discussion "Sportsmanship" shifts the discussion toward the ethical considerations within sport, focusing on the meaning and role of sportsmanship. J.K. joins the conversation and provides an 'academic perspective.' The group debates whether sportsmanship is about moral virtue, following rules, or tradition. Logan argues that competitiveness does not conflict with sportsmanship, asserting that striving to win can coexist with fair play and respect. He contends that strong competition can actually reinforce sportsmanship by compelling athletes to hold themselves and others to high standards of conduct. Skylar and Riley emphasize fairness, suggesting that an excessive focus on competition can erode mutual respect and ethical behavior. J.K. introduces the concept of a regulative ideal, explaining that sportsmanship is not a static code but an evolving principle that reflects shifting cultural and ethical norms. He argues that sportsmanship serves as an aspirational guide, shaping how competitors balance their drive to win with broader moral considerations. The discussion presents sportsmanship as a nuanced and evolving concept, debating whether it functions as a moral virtue, a set of traditions, or a practical approach to sustaining fairness and competition, without achieving a final consensus.
In "Cheating and Running Up the Score," the group explores the ethical boundaries of fair play, examining the concepts of cheating and the acceptability of dominant victories. The group defines cheating by distinguishing between breaking explicit rules and violating the spirit of the game. Pat outlines three perspectives: the absolutist, who sees all rule violations as unacceptable; the traditionalist, who believes cheating undermines the integrity of the game but accepts some flexibility within conventional norms; and the realist, who views rule violations as strategic moves within the competitive framework. They debate whether running up the score is poor sportsmanship or a legitimate part of competition. Riley questions whether moral norms in sport are universally applicable. By the end of the discussion, the group concludes that although a strict definition of cheating remains contested, fairness and integrity should guide competitive behavior.
"Trash Talking and Gamesmanship," expands on the ethics of competition and the conversation turns to verbal strategies and mind games, questioning whether they align with or contradict the spirit of fair competition. Logan and Pat argue that trash talking is a strategic component of sport, asserting that it can serve as a psychological tool to gain a competitive edge. Pat emphasizes that gamesmanship, including verbal tactics, has always been part of sport culture. Skylar, however, critiques this perspective, arguing that trash talking erodes the integrity of sport by fostering hostility rather than respect among competitors. J.K. introduces concerns about whether psychological tactics compromise fair competition, highlighting that ethical guidelines for trash talking vary across different sports and cultures, and questioning whether competitive verbal engagement enhances or detracts from the integrity of sport. He emphasizes that while some forms of verbal engagement are accepted within competitive norms, others cross ethical boundaries. Riley suggests that the acceptability of trash talking varies by sport and cultural norms. The discussion distinguishes gamesmanship from unethical behavior, showing how sports culture influences attitudes toward fair play.
In "Competition and Winning," the discussion naturally progresses to an examination of competition itself, questioning the role and meaning of victory in sport. Logan asserts that winning is the essence of sport, arguing that competition is fundamentally about determining superiority. Pat acknowledges that competition has value beyond winning but maintains that sport is inherently competitive, serving as a medium for skill development and self-improvement. Skylar questions whether victory is the ultimate measure of success, proposing that enjoyment and effort should hold equal significance. Riley argues that competition may have value even in cases where winning is not the primary goal, suggesting that personal growth and community engagement provide alternative measures of success. The group analyzes competition in different contexts and recognizes that while winning remains a key aspect of sport, its significance depends on broader cultural and personal interpretations.
In "Drugs and Sport," the group considers whether performance-enhancing substances distort the nature of sport or simply extend its boundaries. Logan questions the justification for banning such substances, arguing that they are no different from other advancements in training and nutrition that enhance performance. Pat introduces the sport essentialist view, maintaining that drugs undermine fair competition by altering the fundamental nature of athletic achievement. J.K. explains that justifications for banning drugs include fairness, health risks, and the integrity of sport. Riley challenges these justifications, questioning whether such bans are based on genuine ethical concerns or merely an attempt to preserve an arbitrary status quo. He argues that if safety is the primary concern, then other dangerous elements of sport should also be restricted. The discussion presents different frameworks for evaluating the role of enhancement in sport, highlighting the tension between tradition, fairness, and evolving definitions of competition.
In "Gender and Sport," the dialogue questions established gender divisions and their implications. Logan argues that biological differences justify separate categories, while Skylar critiques the exclusion of women from certain sports, arguing that such separations often reflect outdated stereotypes rather than legitimate competitive concerns. J.K. presents feminist arguments about fairness and equal opportunity, emphasizing that historical discrimination has shaped modern sports structures and advocating for reevaluating gendered divisions. Riley questions whether mixed-gender competitions could offer a viable alternative, considering potential advantages and challenges. The discussion explores how gender norms and historical practices shape contemporary sports policies, with the group ultimately recognizing that while gender divisions persist, they are increasingly subject to scrutiny and reevaluation.
"Fans and Role Models" moves beyond the players themselves and the conversation broadens to consider the societal impact of athletes, particularly their influence as public figures and moral exemplars. Logan views athletes primarily as entertainers, suggesting that their personal behavior should not impact their professional status. Pat and J.K. argue that public visibility entails ethical responsibility. J.K. elaborates that because athletes are admired by millions, their behavior influences public perception, particularly among younger fans. He suggests that athletes have an implicit duty to uphold moral standards, as their actions set examples beyond the playing field. Skylar questions whether fans impose unrealistic expectations on players, emphasizing that society often holds athletes to a higher standard than other public figures. Riley examines the ethical implications of fandom, questioning whether sports figures should be moral exemplars or if their personal lives should remain separate from their athletic performances. The discussion highlights different perspectives on the relationship between athletes and their audiences, ultimately leaving the question of responsibility open-ended as the characters recognize the complexity of expectations placed on public figures.
In "Sport and Meaning" the dialogues culminate in an exploration of the broader existential and cultural significance of sport. Pat argues that sport offers narratives and existential significance, providing meaning through engagement, identity formation, and personal fulfillment. He contends that sport, like art and literature, can hold deep personal and collective meaning. Skylar remains skeptical, questioning whether sport is fundamentally important or merely a distraction from more meaningful pursuits. She challenges Pat’s view by arguing that the cultural obsession with sport overshadows more substantive aspects of life and that the value assigned to sports is socially constructed rather than inherent. Riley suggests that meaning in sport is subjective, shaped by personal experience rather than any universal significance. He contrasts with both Pat and Skylar by asserting that sport does not necessarily need intrinsic meaning to be valuable; its significance is contingent on individual and cultural interpretation. The discussion considers how sport influences identity and culture, concluding with an acknowledgment of sport’s complexity and the diverse ways individuals assign value to it.
In conclusion, Playing Games illustrates multiple perspectives on several of the fundamental questions within the philosophy of sport. Each chapter explores a key issue, with the characters debating definitions, ethics, and cultural values. The dialogues emphasize the movement within the process of argumentation and the role of philosophy in clarifying concepts. Ultimately, Playing Games portrays sport as a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by competition, ethics, and meaning. Moreover it encourages readers to reflect critically on sport’s role in human life, demonstrating how philosophical inquiry applies to everyday activities.
Displaying 1 of 1 review