Abstract
This paper takes a hermeneutical perspective to argue that sport is a useful pedagogical tool for liberal-democratic societies. To do so, we first look into the controversial issue of whether sport is a serious activity linked to the larger society and its values. Second, we argue that sports have been closely connected to serious societal aspects since ancient times. Third, we relate the origins of both politics and philosophy to several forces and attitudes. Fourth, we show that such forces and attitudes are still at the core of contemporary sports. In conclusion, we advocate that sports can be used to improve liberal-democratic societies.
Keywords
Philosophy of sports; Pedagogy; Education; Democracy