The Origins of Sports and Competition (Part 2)

In this segment, I am excited to continue our journey into understanding the history of sports. In our last segment, we discussed how competitions and games are seen throughout human history no matter the civilization or period. To understand why sports are so prevalent, we explored Agon games. These games capture the essence of competition and help us to understand the war-like nature of many competitions. Today, I would like to introduce a new aspect of many recreations: Alea, which will allow us to better understand the origins of organized competition and games.

Alea games were first explored and written about by author Roger Caillois who studied the nature of play. He coined the term to describe the aspect of luck and fortune that is built into many competitions. This aspect of many games does not encompass any skill or ability but merely relies on fate and chance. Alea games are best recognized in many card games and casino games. Think of a roulette table. The participant has no control over where the ball will land but must rely on good fortune to deliver a win. Another example of Alea games is golf, a game that combines aspects of both Agon and Alea. Factors as small as a light breeze or damp grass can wildly shift a swing or entire round.

So what does this tell us about the origins of sports? The Alea aspect of the sport is present in so many competitions because it helps to make games more entertaining. While Agon games served a more practical military purpose, the Alea aspect of sports helps to captivate the attention of the audience and participant. The mystery of what will happen next and the suspense in these games keeps them fresh and interesting. The audience is always on their toes ready for a legendary success or major fail. Furthermore, the Alea aspect of competition often creates animated scenes of emotion, Especially when the improbable occurs. For example, a crowd going wild after a basketball player hits a game-winning half-court shot or a gambler winning big on a slots machine. The rarity and improbability of such events create excitement and disbelief in those who witness them, creating a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Alea games help to detail the luck and suspense in many sports, helping to make games more engaging to watch and play and emotionally stimulating. The twists and turns that Alea games provide have helped them to maintain their popularity throughout history.

Well, that's all I have for you today. I hope you enjoyed reading this segment, and have a better understanding of the origins of sports. I encourage you to leave a comment or question in the forum and I look forward to continuing our journey.

Works Cited

Starn, Orin. "Origins of Modern Sports." Sports and Society, 15 Jul. 2020, Duke University, https://www.coursera.org/learn/sports-society.