The Value and Future of the Olympic Games

Abstract

The modern Olympic Games and Baron Pierre de Coubertin were products of their times. The modern Games were idealistically based, differing markedly from the ancient Games. And the 1972 Games, in turn, differ greatly from the 1896 Games. The Games have also been subject to change, with 120 nations competing in 1972 and a mere 12 in 1896. Perhaps the modern values of the Games are (1) the opportunity for the athletes to meet and participate against athletes of all colors, races, and creeds; (2) the opportunity for the athlete to travel to other countries and learn to understand better the way of life in those lands; and (3) the opportunity for the athlete to test himself in a supreme challenge, physically and emotionally.