Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport - (Elements of Philosophy) by Heather Reid (Hardcover)

About the Book

Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport begins with the history of sport, delves into both the metaphysics and ethics of sport, and also addresses dimensions of the social and political elements of sport. This book is a comprehensive introduction to the philosophy of sport wi...

Book Synopsis

Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport begins with the history of sport, delves into both the metaphysics and ethics of sport, and also addresses dimensions of the social and political elements of sport. This book is a comprehensive introduction to the philosophy of sport with a straightforward layout that professors can plan and build their courses around.

Review Quotes

As might be expected from Heather Reid, Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport is a thorough and rigorously argued treatment of major ethical, social, and metaphysical issues in the philosophy of sport. Her book is distinguished by her judicious treatment of the work of both ancient Greek and contemporary sources as well as its clear treatment of difficult issues and its analytic acuity.

From her vantage point as professor of philosophy and former elite cyclist, Reid (Morningside College) provides a compelling introduction to the philosophy of sport. Organized in four sections (historical, metaphysical, ethical, social and political), this book carefully examines numerous philosophical issues related to sport and physical activity. An expert in ancient Greek philosophy, Reid begins by examining the place of sport in antiquity and the modern Olympic Games. Subsequent sections explore the relationship between sport and play, games, social practices, art, mind, and body. Sport invariably touches on ethical issues, and in this vein Reid illustrates how ethical frameworks such as consequentialism and deontology impact the sporting arena. Reid excels by combining her scholarly philosophical knowledge and critical reasoning skills with her experiential background in sport and a keen sense of movement-related applications. This work will be of interest to those studying philosophy and kinesiology. It could serve as an insightful introductory text. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter prompt the reader toward greater reflection on this important topic and serve as a tremendous resource for faculty members. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates; faculty; general readers.

Heather Reid's Introduction to the Philosophy of Sport fills a gap in the subject area. It is an entry-level yet encompassing text that will greatly enhance courses in sport philosophy, as well as programs in kinesiology and sports management that seek to impart a broader, more humanistic perspective to their students. Academically rigorous yet eminently readable, its tight argumentation, very interesting examples, and probing questions will definitely engage students. Particularly commendable is the fact that instead of just focusing on particular issues--cheating, doping, violence, or college sports--Reid integrates these into a suitable philosophical context. Students will leave not just with a number of convenient "answers," but rather a comprehensive view sensitive to the complexity of the issues. Whether on its own or supplemented by primary source readings, this volume gives instructors the flexibility to craft their "dream course."

This is a first-rate introduction to the philosophy of sport, which introduces the student to most of the important issues in the discipline, surveys the major scholarship in a way that is both fair and accessible, and shows the student reader how to connect his or her sporting experience with the issues as they have been treated. The book also has an extensive bibliography that will be as valuable to established scholars as it will be to students.


This is an excellent volume that emphasizes sport metaphysics and ethics. Reid's knowledge of Greek philosophy provides a wonderful foundation for her analyses of the nature and value of sport. Her prose is very accessible, and her analyses are more than worthy of consideration. This is a superb introduction for those interested in learning about central themes in sport philosophy.

About the Author

Heather Reid is professor of philosophy at Morningside College.