If one harbours anywhere in one's mind a nationalistic loyalty or hatred, certain facts, although in a sense known to be true, are inadmissible.
George OrwellRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that competitive sports often embody negative human traits rather than fairness and sportsmanship.
George Orwell's quote critiques the nature of competitive sports, arguing that they are intertwined with negative emotions such as hatred and jealousy, rather than embodying true fairness and camaraderie. He likens the competitive spirit of sports to a form of war, highlighting the aggressive and unethical aspects that often overshadow the intended spirit of competition.
Themes
SportsCompetitionHuman NatureViolencePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
A coach might use this quote to discuss the darker aspects of competition with their team.
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