EDU 518 - The Purpose of Sport

This course explores the relationship between the purpose of sport and the mindset of its participants. Students will contrast the view of sport as primarily pragmatic and utilitarian in nature, according to which athletes and coaches participate with the sole motivation of winning, with the view that the ultimate purpose of sport is to cultivate and practice virtue. By contrasting these rival visions, students will investigate the ways in which an integrated view best cultivates the mindset needed to flourish in and for life. Special attention will be given to the classical virtues and how placing them at the core of the athletic experience embraces the desire to win, reflects our human dignity, and fortifies mind, body, and soul.

3 Semester Credit(s)

Crosslisted with: N/A
Laboratory/Experience Hours: N/A
Prerequisite(s): N/A
Corequisite(s): N/A
Repeatable for Credit: No
Core Course: No
Grade Type: LT
Typically Offered: Summer