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Fair play Quote by George Orwell

“Serious sport has nothing to do with fair play. It is bound up with hatred, jealousy, boastfulness, disregard of all rules and sadistic pleasure in witnessing violence. In other words, it is war minus the shooting. (in "The Sporting Spirit", Tribune, GB, London, December 1945)” quote by George Orwell
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““Serious sport has nothing to do with fair play. It is bound up with hatred, jealousy, boastfulness, disregard of all rules and sadistic pleasure in witnessing violence. In other words, it is war minus the shooting. (in "The Sporting Spirit", Tribune, GB, London, December 1945)””

George Orwell

About This Quote

Source Article: "The Sporting Spirit", Tribune, GB, London, December 1945

Sport can become a proxy for aggression, where competition replaces fair play with hostility and cruelty.

In simple terms: Sport may turn into violent rivalry.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and curb aggression in competition.

Themes

competition aggression ethics violence

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical commentary

When to use this quote

  • team sports
  • spectator culture
  • media commentary
  • policy making

Key Concepts

war metaphor social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does competitive pressure foster hostility?
  • What safeguards can preserve fair play?
A Different Perspective

Even in sport, rules and sportsmanship can be eroded by deeper social tensions.

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