Amateurism vs professionalism Flashcards
Define amateurism
A person who does not get paid to play sport but plays for the love of the game
Define professionalism
A person who is paid a salary for playing, and playing is their job
What class were amateurs and professionals in pre industrial times
Amateurs - upper class
Professionals - lower class
Why were the upper class labelled as amateurs in pre industrial Britain
Did not need the extra money and had more leisure time compared to lower classes. Was also frowned upon to be paid to play - went against ‘rules of being a gentleman’
What class does professionalism consist of in the 21st century sport
Can come from any social class - classless
What did public schools promote as an ethos for sport
Cult of athleticism, muscular christianity, development of teamwork, leadership, fair play and character through sport
What is muscular christianity
Philosophical movement that originated in the mid 19th century, characterized by a belief in patriotic duty, discipline, self sacrifice, masculinity, and the moral and physical beauty of athleticism
What is an argument for sport to have remained amateur
Value of good sportsmanship and not win at all cost. Maintain olympic ideals of excellence, determination, courage, friendship and respect. Maintain independence of sport from the media and commercial influences
What is an argument for sport to have become professional
Improved opportunities for working class. Increased standard of professional sport, with broken time payments allowing performers to take time off work to train. Media coverage increases standards. Increased revenue through sponsorship benefiting all involved
What are arguments against sport becoming professional
Undermines amateur ethos and original sporting values. Commercial pressures can lead to deviant behaviour (e.g Lance Armstrong PEDs). Commoditisation leads to reduced control and less equality between teams (Real and Barca). Less entertaining with increased player fitness
