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ABSTRACT
In this paper, I examine two contemporary models of sport, the Martial/Commercial (MC) Model and the Aesthetic/Recreational (AR) Model, from the perspective of Stoic philosophy. Drawing on the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, much is found to praise in the AR model, though, ultimately, the AR emphasis on pleasure over virtue as an outcome is criticized. Stoic philosophy proves much more critical of the MC model, finding its emphasis on winning over everything, fame, and wealth critically flawed. The paper ends with a brief sketch of a Stoic approach to sport.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.
Notes
1. Thanks to William Morgan for this helpful observation.
2. This is not an exhaustive list.
3. Thanks to all who participated in the Ancient Philosophy and Sport conference at the University of Southern California, and especially Daniel Durbin both for organizing it and offering helpful feedback on this paper.