Ethos and Olympism The Ethic Principles of Olympism

Abstract

This study investigates the manifestations of ethos in the theory and practice of modern Olympic Games. The ethos of ancient Olympic Games can be organized around the principle of 'kalokagathia', therefore this area of problems is discussed by the author in the first place. The ethos of modern Olympic Games can be explained first of all on the basis of the Coubertin's philosophy. In the Coubertin's basic principles of modern Olympism is hidden the ethical principle of order which can give an answer to the questions concerning ethos of modern Olympic Games. The study investigates two basic pillars of the Olympism: the well-known slogan of "citius, altius, fortius" containing the 20th Century's performance- oriented human ideal - on the one hand, and the phrase of "the participation is the main thing" insisting on the expansion and "democratization" of sport - on the other. Essentially the author explains how these two principles were and are descended from this ethical discrepancy.