Mal Fletcher examines the value of the modern Olympics movement in light of it being an extension of the market economy



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The argument often goes further, too, to suggest that financial support is especially vital when an athlete's or team's success is likely to bring recognition to the nation they represent.

In most cases, this 'recognition' is coded language for business and other financial opportunities.

H. G. Wells, a writer of history as well as science fiction, once remarked that history measures a person's greatness by what they leave behind to grow when they're gone. We might apply a similar measure to human events.

Once the quadrennial carnival is over, what does a modern Olympiad leave behind?

In London's case, part of the legacy will be a new high-speed railway line from downtown to nowhere in particular - Stratford isn't exactly a buzzing centre, at least not yet - plus the world's largest McDonald's outlet.

For most of the nations taking part, there will be a temporary spike in nationalistic spirit - or jingoism - and a reminder that David very rarely defeats Goliath, especially where big money has been involved.

Are the Olympics a waste of time? No - they promote athleticism to increasingly inactive and obese populations. They also provide a reminder that there is virtue in competition if it is undertaken against a backdrop of mutual respect.

What's more, sporting facilities and the transport and housing built around them can in time become a useful addition to local infrastructure. (Though whether the Olympics were a necessary part of such projects is debatable.)

Sadly, though, sport is like the arts: it is increasingly seen an extension of the market economy. It is an opportunity to increase a community's collective wealth.

The virtues and values that once placed sporting endeavour on a higher plane than business or politics are now overlooked, treated as relics of a bygone, less sophisticated age.

We are all the poorer for it. Perhaps the London Games can begin to redress the imbalance. We can but hope so. CR

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.